This ruby believed to originate from the Montepuez region of Mozambique contained long crystals of a transparent, birefringent material. One was cut through on the surface. Analysis via micro Raman revealed it to be pargasite, a common guest in Mozambique rubies which come from an amphibolite schist host rock.
Natural Ruby • Mozambique • Enhancements: None Detected (None) • Lighting Conditions: Dark Field + Diffuse Overhead Fiber Optic
Photographer: Richard W. Hughes •
Image Number: A-003-6642-2 • Field of View = 2 mm • Date Posted: 20 July 2020
Pardieu, V., Sangsawong, S. et al. (2013) Rubies from the Montepuez area (Mozambique). Gemological Institute of America, October 5, 84 pp.; RWHL*.
Hughes, R.W., Manorotkul, W. and Hughes, E.B. (2017) Ruby & Sapphire: A Gemologist's Guide. Bangkok, Lotus Publishing, 816 pp.; RWHL*.