.

	Atlas Diamond Co., Inc.
.	Fluorescence

. . A diamond's fluorescence is a tricky thing. To put it simply, a diamond's fluorescence is it's glow under the influence of UV light. With the unaided eye, it is very hard to see when not in the proper environment.
.
For example, in simple sunlight, UV light is abundantly present, but then again, so is every other spectrum of light, thus drowning out the glow. Technically, it IS visible, but only the trained eye could see it after a short while of looking.
.
Under halogen and fluorescent lights, there simply aren't any (or very little) UV rays emitted, making the stone look as wonderful as can be, just without any fluorescence.
.
However, under a special light source designated to send out only UV light, a diamond will "show it's true colors". A UV light, aimed at a diamond, will bounce back only if the stone has fluorescence. The stonger the fluorescence, the brighter the UV light bounces back. Almost every case of fluorescence results in a blue tone, but there is always the exception to the rule, resulting in greenish tones.
.
Fluorescence is a thoroughly debated topic in the diamond industry. Many people like it, and many people don't. Some enjoy it as a little extra surprise held deep within the stone, and others claim that it takes away from the diamond's natural brilliance. A stone's fluorescnce is a natural phenomenon, just not always appreciated.
. .

---

LinkExchange Member