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With advanced high-resolution analytical scanning electron microscope, we are now capable to characterize solid materials easier and faster down to nanometer-scales. *Email: Nanomineralogy is the study of Earth and planetary materials at nanoscales, focused on characterizing nanofeatures (like inclusions, exsolution, zonation, coatings, pores) in minerals and rocks, and revealing nanominerals and nanoparticles. ROSSMAN Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA. Goldschmidt2013 Conference Abstracts Nanomineralogy of gemstones: From genesis to discovery CHI MA* AND GEORGE R. `Fire' obsidian, a variety of obsidian from Oregon, has thin layers showing varous colors.
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Why is obsidian black? Because most obsidians contain nanoinclusions of magnetite. Sub-micrometer inclusions of ilmenite are the cause of color in blue quartz. Rose quartz contains nanofibers of a dumortierite-related phase that is pink, which is the true cause of rose color and optical star effects. Presented here are a few colorful projects demonstrating how nanomineralogy works and plays a unique role in gemstone and geomaterial research. During our nanomineralogy investigation of gemstones, nanofeatures are being discovered in many commom gems, which cause color and other optical effects, and provide clues to genesis. M – Goldschmidt Abstracts 2013 M – Goldschmidt Abstracts 2013