Faceted opals

Article Abstract:

Transparent opals come in various colors and are found mostly in Mexico, Brazil, Australia and Nevada. They can be faceted like quartz, but are more likely to craze due to heat. To prevent this, transparent opals are cold-dopped, using epoxy as glue. Cutting is similar to that of quartz but uses water as coolant.

Author: Gray, Michael
Cover Story, Varieties, Opals, Gem cutting

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More than red

Article Abstract:

Garnets come in different colors, but the most popular are the almandines, which are red in color. The pyropes and the spessartines are also red, while the grossular garnets come in many colors. The adradites are the most expensive garnets while the uvarovites are the rarest.

Author: Gray, Michael, Gray, Patricia
Evaluation, Gems, Precious stones, Garnet

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Faceting fluorite

Article Abstract:

Fluorite or fluorspar is a popular soft stone that may be used in training jewelers to polish stones. Techniques are presented to cut and polish the stone. Famous fluorite stones are discussed.

Author: Gray, Michael
Jewelry making, Fluorspar

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Subjects list: Methods
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