Ass #19-Diamond Tools and Instrumentation

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Questions and Answers

What is the main advantage of photoluminescence spectroscopy compared to FTIR spectroscopy?

It offers less precise detection of trace concentrations.

It allows for extremely precise detection of trace concentrations of defects. (correct)

It requires a lower power laser for operation.

It can identify more heat absorption characteristics.

What does the DiamondView imaging microscope primarily reveal about a diamond?

The diamond’s color treatment.

The diamond's internal growth patterns. (correct)

The diamond's external clarity.

The diamond's overall fluorescence intensity.

How does photoluminescence mapping enhance the study of diamonds?

It can identify diamond color treatments without any ambiguity.

It operates independently of laser light.

It highlights differences in defect concentrations across a diamond's surface. (correct)

It reduces the amount of data collected.

What characteristic fluorescence is commonly observed in lab-grown diamonds?

Blue fluorescence at any UV wavelength. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the high-resolution spectrometer in photoluminescence spectroscopy?

To measure the energy emitted as light from the diamond. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a diamantaire in the diamond trade?

Sorting and matching small diamonds Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is best for measuring the dimensions of a diamond?

Millimeter gauge Signup and view all the answers

Why is daylight-equivalent fluorescent light preferred for color grading diamonds?

It provides consistent and neutral lighting Signup and view all the answers

Which function does a sorting pad serve in the diamond handling process?

To provide a contrasting background for sorting Signup and view all the answers

What feature do light blue flutes in stone papers provide for colorless diamonds?

They enhance the apparent color of the diamonds Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is essential when examining and grading diamonds?

10x triplet loupe Signup and view all the answers

What common mistake occurs when using standard tweezers for handling diamonds?

Applying too much pressure on the stone Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a memo pad in the diamond industry?

To record diamond sales and valuations Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary purpose of UV-Vis-NIR absorption spectroscopy in diamond analysis?

To determine the diamond's color centers responsible for its color Signup and view all the answers

How does cooling a diamond to -196°C before analysis improve spectral accuracy?

It sharpens the spectral absorption peaks. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a key difference between a spectrometer and a spectroscope?

A spectrometer provides more accurate wavelength positions for peaks. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is determined using infrared spectroscopy?

The diamond's type based on absorption characteristics Signup and view all the answers

Why is the FTIR spectrometer considered advantageous in diamond analysis?

It provides results more quickly than other spectrometers. Signup and view all the answers

What determines a diamond's type when using infrared spectroscopy?

The presence or absence of absorption due to nitrogen and/or boron Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding gemologists and advanced instruments?

They interpret data from instruments for accurate diamond identification. Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of using a UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer?

It can test only one diamond at a time. Signup and view all the answers

How is the data from an FTIR spectrometer interpreted?

By converting it into an absorption spectrum using a computer Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a spectroscope in diamond analysis?

To record the absorption spectrum of the diamond Signup and view all the answers

What feature of scales is essential for ensuring accurate diamond weight measurements?

Adjustable feet and a liquid-filled capsule Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is primarily considered when matching diamonds for jewelry?

Color and face-up appearance Signup and view all the answers

When using a sieve set for sorting diamonds, what is the purpose of the perforated plates?

To allow only specific sizes to pass through Signup and view all the answers

What tools should be used to check speculation when matching table sizes of diamonds?

The flash method for visual comparison Signup and view all the answers

For diamonds weighing 0.05 ct. and above, what factors require careful matching?

Color and clarity characteristics Signup and view all the answers

How should small diamonds be oriented for comparison when matching?

Face-up on a tray Signup and view all the answers

Which factor can negatively impact the accuracy of a diamond scale?

Exposure to bright sunlight or drafts Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the ‘I’ clarity range when matching diamonds?

It reflects the highest variations in appearance Signup and view all the answers

What should a dealer do before using a scale for weighing diamonds?

Calibrate it using a standard weight Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary purpose of a millimeter gauge in the context of diamond measurement?

To measure a stone's depth when unmounted Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important consideration for matching diamonds 0.01 ct. or less?

table size Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of photoluminescence mapping?

subtle distinctions in defect concentrations Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Diamond Tools and Instrumentation

A diamantaire is a professional in the diamond trade, often a dealer or manufacturer
Standard gemological tools include tweezers, scoop, sorting pad, matching tray, loupe, millimeter gauge, sieve sets, and scales
Stone papers are folded papers used to hold and protect diamonds, with details like size, weight, and cost written on them
Stone papers come in various sizes and colors, with an inner translucent "flute" layer affecting diamond color perception
Tweezers and a cleaning cloth are essential
A scoop is a small metal shovel for handling small stones
A sorting pad is a white paper background for sorting parcels
A matching tray compares and matches diamonds for sets
Proper lighting is crucial, often using daylight-equivalent fluorescent light
A millimeter gauge measures diamond dimensions (girdle and depth)
A sieve set sorts numerous small diamonds
Scales have leveling mechanisms and require calibration, preventing vibration, and heat/draft influences

Diamond Handling, Sorting, and Measurement

Organization is key (folded papers, etc.)
Using a scoop and a sorting pad are essential to work with parcels and stones
Tray matching facilitates grouping similarly sized stones for sets
Consistent light is crucial for color grading
Calculations are used to find suitable profit margins or sales prices for each diamond

Advanced Diamond Instrumentation

Gemologists use advanced instruments for detailed analyses, including:
- UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy (reveals a gem's absorption spectrum to identify its nature and origin of color)
- Infrared spectroscopy (measures a gem's absorption of infrared energy and provides a second result in fractions of a second)
Both methods identify the specific type of diamond
Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy identifies defects in diamonds with high precision

Diamond Matching

Weight, color, clarity, and cut are important factors in matching
Color and face-up appearance are crucial matching factors
Compare diamond dimensions and reflect light for proper matching

Lab Grown Diamond Identification

Most lab-grown diamonds are identified by distinct fluorescence patterns and growth striations
High-energy UV imaging reveals more about the structure of lab-grown diamonds
Diamond type can be determined by infrared spectroscopy and whether or not boron and/or nitrogen, or if they're isolated or aggregated, is present in the absorption spectrum
Diamonds are often tested to confirm their origins

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Description

This quiz covers essential tools and techniques used in the diamond trade, focusing on both professional equipment and best practices. Discover the importance of gemological tools like tweezers, scales, and sorting pads, as well as the unique features of stone papers. Test your knowledge of proper procedures and lighting essential for working with diamonds.