Hessonite garnet gemstone, or good gemstone, enjoys widespread popularity due to its value as a precious stone. Often used in ornaments and jewelry, it can be worn by men and women for the health and astrological benefits they offer. However, it is essential to get only the most authentic Hessonite Gemstone or Gomed Gemstone for one’s personal use, as counterfeit gemstones are not worth the time and money of the consumers.
Many people who are new to using these stones are unaware of how to test them for authenticity and quality.
Whether you intend to buy an African garnet or a Hessonite Gemstone from any other part of the world, it is essential that you get only authentic gemstones. Here are some methods by which you can test the Hessonite Gemstone or Gomed Gemstone for its authenticity. This blog explores the various methods of testing Hessonite gemstones to determine their authenticity and quality, providing comprehensive insights into each technique.
1. Visual Inspection
Color Examination
Hessonite gemstones are renowned for their distinct honey-yellow to brownish-red color. A high-quality Hessonite will exhibit a rich, uniform color without visible patches or discolorations. The color should be vibrant and evenly distributed throughout the stone.
Clarity and Inclusions
Inspecting the clarity of a Hessonite involves looking for inclusions or internal flaws. Minor inclusions are common and acceptable, but they should not significantly impact the stone’s overall appearance. High-quality Hessonites have fewer inclusions, making them more visually appealing.
Cut and Shape
The cut of the gemstone affects its brilliance and overall aesthetic appeal. A well-cut Hessonite will have symmetrical facets that enhance its natural beauty and maximize light reflection. Typical cuts include oval, cushion, and emerald cuts.
2. Physical Properties
Hardness Test
Hessonite gemstone, also known as Gomed Ratna, a variety of garnet, has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. This means it can scratch glass but is susceptible to scratches from more complex materials like quartz. Testing the hardness involves attempting to scratch the gemstone with a substance of known hardness.
Specific Gravity
The specific gravity of Hessonite ranges from 3.65 to 3.73. To measure this, the gemstone is weighed in air and water. The ratio of these weights provides the specific gravity, helping to confirm the stone’s identity.
3. Spectroscopic Analysis
Absorption Spectrum
Gemologists can analyze the absorption spectrum of Hessonite using a spectroscope. Authentic Hessonites exhibit characteristic absorption lines, particularly in the yellow and blue regions of the spectrum. These lines help differentiate Hessonite from similar-looking stones.
Refractive Index
The refractive index of Hessonite ranges from 1.732 to 1.760. A refractometer measures how light bends as it enters the gemstone. Consistent readings within this range indicate a genuine Hessonite.
4. Advanced Instrumental Techniques
X-ray Diffraction (XRD)
XRD is used to analyze the crystal structure of the gemstone. By exposing the Hessonite to X-rays and measuring the diffraction patterns, gemologists can confirm its crystalline structure and composition, distinguishing it from imitations.
Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF)
EDXRF is a non-destructive technique used to determine the elemental composition of gemstones. It involves bombarding the stone with X-rays and analyzing the secondary X-rays emitted. The resulting data provides insights into the elements present, confirming the gemstone’s identity.
5. Gemological Labs and Certification
Importance of Certification
Obtaining a certificate from a reputed gemological laboratory is one of the most reliable ways to ensure the authenticity of a Hessonite gemstone. These labs use the techniques above to provide a detailed gemstone analysis.
Reputable Laboratories
A certificate from a renowned lab is a must. Certificates from these institutions guarantee that the gemstone has been thoroughly tested and authenticated.
6. Practical Tips for Buyers
Recognizing Synthetic and Imitation Stones
Synthetic Hessonites are created in laboratories and may have physical and chemical properties similar to natural ones. However, they often lack the inclusions found in natural stones. On the other hand, imitations might be entirely different minerals made to resemble Hessonite. Buyers should be cautious and seek expert opinions when in doubt.
Dealing with Gem Dealers
When purchasing Hessonite, buying from reputable dealers who provide certification and a return policy is essential. Understanding the basic properties and asking for detailed information about the gemstone can help buyers make informed decisions.
Testing the authenticity and quality of Hessonite gemstones involves a combination of visual inspection, physical property analysis, spectroscopic techniques, and advanced instrumental methods. Certification from reputable gemological laboratories provides additional assurance of the gemstone’s authenticity. By understanding these methods, buyers, and enthusiasts can ensure they acquire genuine Hessonites, whether for their beauty or astrological significance.