![]() ![]() Some gemstones fluoresce even in normal visible light or daylight. ![]() However, gemologists most commonly use ultraviolet light (UV) to trigger gemstone luminescence. X-rays, visible light, and even heat can provide the energy to excite the electrons in minerals. Diamonds phosphorescing (crystals approximately 1 to 1.5 mm in size), Democratic Republic of the Congo. When the UV light is turned off, they phosphoresce a soft green color afterwards. These yellow diamonds fluoresce magenta or green under UV light. If there is a delay in the release of the energy (ranging from seconds to hours), the effect is then called phosphorescence. If the absorbed energy is released almost immediately, the effect is called fluorescence. What's the Difference Between Fluorescence and Phosphorescence? Collectors prize tugtupite, found in Greenland, for its intense displays of gemstone luminescence under UV light. Collectors also prize crystal specimens with spectacular luminescent displays. ![]() However, for gem identification purposes, gemologists usually analyze luminescence in conjunction with other tests. Gemstone luminescence can help gemologists differentiate between certain natural and synthetic gems. Photos by Géry Parent. Licensed under CC By-SA 3.0. Apatite, quartz, orthoclase feldspar, and muscovite under normal white light and UV light. Some minerals glow or fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light, such as some shown here. ![]()
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