Learn to Use a Refractometer (Video)

This refractometer tutorial video will show you how to find a gem's refractive index, birefringence, optic character, and other properties.

0
HomeLearning CenterGemologyGemology ToolsLearn to Use a Refractometer (Video)
By Kyrylo Gubariev, Graduate Gemologist (GG, AJP), Addison Rice

Are you having trouble taking refractometer readings? This tutorial video will demonstrate how to determine a gemstone's refractive index, optic character, and other properties with this instrument. Your refractometer can provide important clues for accurate gemstone identification.

Interested in this topic?

This article is also a part of our Gemology Tools Mini Course, in the unit Measuring Optical Properties.

View the Course

Premium Content - Membership Required - Learn More

Kyrylo Gubariev, Graduate Gemologist (GG, AJP)

Kyrylo Gubariev, Graduate Gemologist (GG, AJP) is a gemologist with a passion for sharing his knowledge with fellow gem lovers. Originally from Ukraine, he is currently based in Bangkok, Thailand.

View All Articles

Addison Rice

A geologist, environmental engineer and Caltech graduate, Addison’s interest in the mesmerizing and beautiful results of earth’s geological processes began in her elementary school’s environmental club. When she isn’t writing about gems and minerals, Addison spends winters studying ancient climates in Iceland and summers hiking the Colorado Rockies.

View All Articles

Related Articles

More Articles
“Genesis And Classification Of Agates And Jaspers: A New Theory” Book Review

“Genesis And Classification Of Agates And Jaspers: A New Theory” Book Review

“Genesis And Classification Of Agates And Jaspers: A New Theory” insightfully explains the formation of these gems and features beautiful...
Read More
The Optical Spectrum and the Spectroscope

The Optical Spectrum and the Spectroscope

The spectroscope is a device that separates white light into an optical spectrum of component colors that can aid in...
Read More
The Spectroscope

The Spectroscope

The spectroscope is a fundamental gemological tool. Learn how to use it to identify gemstones based on their absorption of...
Read More
How to Build Pocket Crossed Filters for Gemstone Testing

How to Build Pocket Crossed Filters for Gemstone Testing

The crossed filters technique allows gemologists to detect chromium in gems. Learn how to build a portable device for conducting...
Read More

Latest Articles

More Articles
Classic Engagement Ring StonesPastel purple sapphire</a>, 1.08 cts, 5.8 mm, round cut, Sri Lanka. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/learn-to-use-a-refractometer-video/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Classic Engagement Ring Stones

Emerald, ruby, sapphire, and diamond are the most popular choices for classic engagement ring stones. Learn more about these traditional...
Read More
Broken Bangle — The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature: Book Review

Broken Bangle — The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature: Book Review

Is fei cui a better term for "pyroxene jade" than jadeite? Jeffery Bergman reviews Broken Bangle, a new book on...
Read More
Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry InformationJoel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

One of the rarest of all facetable gems, cut cuprites can show magnificent deep red color. However, these beautiful stones...
Read More
Gemstone Radiation TreatmentPhoto courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/learn-to-use-a-refractometer-video/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/learn-to-use-a-refractometer-video/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1081/eros-auctions-inc/">Eros Auctions, Inc</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Gemstone Radiation Treatment

Gemstone radiation is a common but little understood technique for altering colors. Learn how it works and what gems usually...
Read More

Latest Community Discussions

Tanzanian Corundum

Tanzanian Corundum

Read More
Is This a Topazolite Garnet?

Is This a Topazolite Garnet?

Read More
Nigerian Gemstones

Nigerian Gemstones

Read More
Is This an Opal?

Is This an Opal?

Read More

Never Stop Learning

When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.

Become a Member

Get Gemology Insights

Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!