The inspection of aspects as origin of gems is a key information not only in gemological field, but also in Cultural Heritage studies, for the correct classification and evaluation of precious artifacts. Due to the great value of gems and jewels, the studies on gems require the application of non-invasive and non-destructive methods (Vandenabeele et al. 2014). Among them, portable spectroscopic techniques (such as Raman and X-ray fluorescence) have been demonstrated as powerful tools in investigating mineralogical identity and chemistry of gemstones (Barone et al. 2015, Barone et al. 2016a, Barone et al.2016b, Lauwers et al. 2016, Petrovà et al. 2012). In particular, trace-element chemistry can provide a fingerprint of gems, for the determination of their origin (e.g.: natural vs. synthetic) and provenance (e.g.: geographical areas) (Rossman 2009). In this study, portable XRF spectroscopy has been applied to test the potential of the technique for the origin determination of corundum gems (rubies and sapphires). Effectively, on the basis of the obtained data, natural and synthetic rubies and sapphire have been distinguished; however, the combined use of complementary portable spectroscopy techniques (i.e.: Raman spectroscopy) has to be recommended for the correct interpretation of chemical results.
Portable XRF: a tool for the study of corundum gems
RANERI, SIMONA;LEZZERINI, MARCO;
2017-01-01
Abstract
The inspection of aspects as origin of gems is a key information not only in gemological field, but also in Cultural Heritage studies, for the correct classification and evaluation of precious artifacts. Due to the great value of gems and jewels, the studies on gems require the application of non-invasive and non-destructive methods (Vandenabeele et al. 2014). Among them, portable spectroscopic techniques (such as Raman and X-ray fluorescence) have been demonstrated as powerful tools in investigating mineralogical identity and chemistry of gemstones (Barone et al. 2015, Barone et al. 2016a, Barone et al.2016b, Lauwers et al. 2016, Petrovà et al. 2012). In particular, trace-element chemistry can provide a fingerprint of gems, for the determination of their origin (e.g.: natural vs. synthetic) and provenance (e.g.: geographical areas) (Rossman 2009). In this study, portable XRF spectroscopy has been applied to test the potential of the technique for the origin determination of corundum gems (rubies and sapphires). Effectively, on the basis of the obtained data, natural and synthetic rubies and sapphire have been distinguished; however, the combined use of complementary portable spectroscopy techniques (i.e.: Raman spectroscopy) has to be recommended for the correct interpretation of chemical results.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
