DICHROSCOPE Meaning and
Definition
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A dichroscope is an optical instrument commonly used in gemology to determine the pleochroism of gemstones. Pleochroism refers to the phenomenon of some minerals exhibiting different colors when viewed from different crystallographic orientations. The dichroscope helps gemologists assess this property by enabling them to observe the colors and the intensity of the pleochroic effect.
The instrument typically consists of two small compartments, or tubes, that are placed side by side and aligned with the gemstone being examined. Each compartment contains a polarizing filter that allows only specific polarized light to enter. When the gemstone is placed between the tubes, the dichroscope simultaneously transmits two different views of the stone. By rotating the gemstone, the gemologist can compare the colors seen through each tube, aiding in the identification and classification of gemstones.
The dichroscope is a valuable tool for distinguishing between similar-looking gemstones, as it helps reveal the unique pleochroic properties of different minerals. For instance, a dichroscope can differentiate between two stones that may appear similar in color to the naked eye, but have different pleochroic colors when viewed through the instrument. It also assists in separating natural gemstones from synthetic or imitation ones, as the latter often lack pleochroic effects.
In conclusion, a dichroscope is an essential gemological tool that facilitates the examination and identification of gemstones based on their pleochroic properties, aiding in the assessment of their quality, origin, and authenticity.
Common Misspellings for DICHROSCOPE
- sichroscope
- xichroscope
- cichroscope
- fichroscope
- richroscope
- eichroscope
- duchroscope
- djchroscope
- dkchroscope
- dochroscope
- d9chroscope
- d8chroscope
- dixhroscope
- divhroscope
- difhroscope
- didhroscope
- dicgroscope
- dicbroscope
- dicnroscope
Etymology of DICHROSCOPE
The word dichroscope is derived from two Greek roots: dicho meaning in two parts or twofold, and skopeo meaning to examine or to see. The combination of these roots reflects the purpose of the instrument, which is used to examine or observe the color properties of gemstones, particularly their pleochroism, which is the exhibition of different colors when viewed from different directions. The dichroscope allows the user to observe two different shades or colors simultaneously, hence the combination of dicho and skopeo to form the word dichroscope.
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