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Feature

Tanzanite-colored synthetic Forsterite shows distinct dichroic colors similar to those of Tanzanite. Nevertheless, these two materials are easily differentiated by viewing through this color filter dichroscope. Synthetic Forsterite exhibits a greenish body color, while Tanzanite shows a pinkish-orange color.
Only Tanzanite shows both this pinkish-orange color and the correct dichroic colors. Regardless of appearance through the color filter, all other presently known simulants fail to display the proper dichroic colors when examined with the polarizing filter dichroscope.
Instructions: Place loose stone table down on the white viewing surface that comes with the kit. Illuminate with a bright incandescent light. Through the filter, the viewing surface should appear a dim pinkish-gray color. Now hold the color filter as close as possible to the eye when viewing the test stone. Note the apparent color of the stone, consulting the included table.
Dichroism Test: Observe the illuminated stone on the white viewing surface while holding the filter just above the stone, at least 14 inches from the eye. Move the filter from side to side across the black strip dividing the two transparent polarizing filters. Change the position of the stone and the filter movement several times so as to confirm your observations. Note any color changes observed.You should be concerned with the "body color" of the gem as seen through individual facets.

Description

Characterization and identification of Gems by the use of color filters has always been an appealing approach because of its affordable simplicity and the ease of examining multiple specimens. Featured here is a combination Color Filter and "luggage tag-style" Dichroscope (facsimile shown in 2nd photo) which allows one to distinguish genuine Tanzanite from all of its imitations, such as blue synthetic Forsterite.