Iolite-Sunstone Intergrowth and Inclusions
At the GIA Carlsbad laboratory, the authors recently examined a cabochon of “bloodshot” iolite (containing red, eye-visible platelets of hematite) intergrown with a sunstone.
Quarterly Crystal: “Ball Bearing” in Quartz
Quartz crystals with three-phase fluid inclusions from the Jinkouhe mine in the Sichuan Province of China have been sold for many years at gem and mineral shows such as those held annually in Tucson, Arizona.
Merelaniite in Gem Diopside from Merelani, Tanzania
Fine merelaniite whiskers discovered in gem-quality yellow-green diopside crystals.
Conichalcite in Quartz Chalcedony
Vibrant yellowish green conichalcite inclusions seen in chalcedony for the first time by the Carlsbad laboratory.
Emerald in Rock Crystal Quartz
Perfectly hexagonal emerald crystal identified within a gem-quality rock crystal quartz.
Phenakite with Tourmaline Inclusion Containing Spiral Growth
A phenakite specimen from Madagascar revealed an eclectic inclusion scene containing tourmaline and other crystals.
Rain Cloud in Alexandrite
Milky particles and bands of silk resemble a rain cloud in this faceted alexandrite.
Tourmaline Inclusion in Russian Alexandrite
Russian alexandrite hosts well-formed prismatic tourmaline inclusions, a rare combination worthy of a collector’s specimen.
Dislocation Chain in Oregon Sunstone
A decorated dislocation chain encountered in Oregon sunstone follows an interesting rectangular pattern.
Dravite from Mozambique with an Abundance of Pyrite Inclusions
Numerous intact euhedral pyrite inclusions are noteworthy features within this yellow gem-quality dravite.