Lexique

Adularescence : In mineralogy and gemmology, the term "adularescence" (or Schiller effect) refers to an optical effect due to a natural phenomenon of miroitement under the surface of the stone. This phenomenon is explained by a luminous interference in the internal layers (melted blades) that generates blue and metallic reflections when moving the stone at a certain angle. This phenomenon of adularescence is clearly observed with theLabradorite and the Moon Stone.

Carat : This is a mass measurement unit of agem equal to 0.2g. So there are 5 carats in 1 gram.

Hardness : The hardness of a stone means its ability to resist abrasion and scratches. The scale of Mohs was established in 1822 by the German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs to measure the hardness of a stone based on 10 minerals that can be easily obtained. This is a comparison system that consists of finding the hardest material than the tested mineral can scratch or on the contrary the least hard mineral that can scratch the tested mineral.

Gemme : The word “gemme” comes from the Greek “Eima”, transformed into “gmma”, which can be translated into Latin by “ornament” in the general sense of the term. The French legislation now includes the names "fine stones" (Aigue-Marine, Amethyst..), "precious stones" (Sapphires, Rubis...) and "ornamental stones" (Turquoise, Agate...) under the unique name "gemme stones". The term “gemme” can only be applied to a natural stone of mineral, rocky or organic origin (amber, pearl, coral) that meets specific criteria of aesthetic and hardness.

Gemmology : Gemmology means science that studies Gems. The specialists of this discipline are called gemmologists. Their work is to study gems to identify them and determine their authenticity and value using dedicated instruments (microscope, refractometer.). The gemmologist may also determine whether or not a gem may be used in jewellery for the creation of jewellery and jewellery.

Lapidaire : The profession of lapidary consists in realizing the size and polishing of gemstones. The choice of size (e.g., faceted or not faceted) allows to highlight the colors, reflections and brilliance of gems that will often be used in jewellery for the creation of jewellery or collected for their aesthetics and value.

Mineralogy : Mineralogy is a science that studies minerals and their characteristics in order to identify, describe, analyze and classify the different specimens and their deposits. Among other things, it is a question of determining their origin, composition, way of training and various use in society.

Refractometer: A refractometer is an instrument that allows to measure the refraction index of a gemstone stone to help identify it. Its use is to put in touch the gem tested with a part of the refractometer called "hemicylindre", which is a very high index glass. To ensure optical contact, a drop of high-value liquid must be deposited between the two parts. It is then enough to light the light and look by the eye in order to read the index that appears as a line on the scale graduated. We can then compare the figure obtained from the index table to identify the gemstone.