Vesuvianite (Idocrase) and Apatite Inclusions in Ruby Identifiable by Infrared Spectroscopy

Shown here is a particularly large near-colorless apatite crystal located just under the table facet of the 1.39 ct Burmese Ruby. Photomicrograph by C.P. Smith; magnified 28x.

Two Burmese rubies were sent to AGL for testing. During this testing, it was discovered that there were rather interesting inclusions present. One of the rubies had a euhedral apatite crystal inclusion just below the table facet, as seen on the left. Surface reaching vesuvianite crystal inclusions were also discovered in the other Burmese ruby. To read more, see below.

To download a copy click here

---