7 best gemological refractometers

Gemological refractometers are specialized instruments used in gemology and the study of gemstones to measure their refractive index. The refractive index is a critical property of a gemstone that helps gemologists identify and distinguish between different types of gemstones. Here's what you need to know about gemological refractometers:

  1. Refractive Index: The refractive index (RI) of a gemstone is a measure of how much light is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the gem.Each type of gemstone has a unique RI, which is a key characteristic used for gemstone identification.

  2. Critical for Identification: Gemological refractometers are essential tools for gemologists and jewelers because the RI is often one of the first tests performed to identify a gemstone. By comparing the measured RI to a database of known values, gemologists can narrow down the possible identities of a gem.

  3. Immersion Method: To measure the RI of a gemstone, a small sample of the gem is typically immersed in a refractive index liquid inside the refractometer. The instrument then measures the angle at which light is bent as it passes through the gem and the liquid.

  4. Scale and Readout: Gemological refractometers have a scale or digital readout that displays the RI of the gemstone. This reading is crucial for gemstone identification and differentiation.

  5. Accuracy and Precision: These instruments are designed to provide accurate and precise RI measurements, allowing gemologists to make confident identifications.

  6. Primary Tool for Some Gemstones: For certain gemstones, such as transparent minerals, the refractive index measurement is the primary method used for identification. Other properties like color, luster, and hardness are also considered, but RI can be highly specific.

  7. Non-Destructive Testing: Gemological refractometers are non-destructive tools, meaning they do not harm the gemstone in any way during testing.

  8. Gemstone Quality Assessment: In addition to identification, refractometers can also help assess the quality of a gemstone. Variations in RI across a gem can indicate the presence of internal flaws or treatments.

  9. Calibration: Gemological refractometers should be regularly calibrated to ensure accurate readings. Calibration involves setting the instrument to a known RI value, often using a standard material such as a synthetic gemstone.

  10. Complementary Tools: Gemologists use refractometers in conjunction with other instruments, such as spectrometers and microscopes, to obtain a comprehensive understanding of a gemstone's characteristics.

Gemological refractometers are indispensable tools in the field of gemology, enabling gemologists and jewelers to accurately identify and assess gemstones. Their precise measurements help ensure the quality and authenticity of gemstone jewelry and facilitate the trade of valuable gemstones.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best gemological refractometers on the market
  

Redxiao 【𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝒚 𝐋𝐨𝒘𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞】 Jewelry Refractometer, RHG181 1.30-1.81 Professional Portable Gemological Gemstone Ldentification Gem Refractometer for Jeweler Watch

Redxiao

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

1. Specially designed for measuring the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.

2. Lightweight and compact, easy to carry.

3. This refractometer features high accuracy and easy operation.

4. Identify single and double gems quickly and precisely.

5. Low battery consumption for long service time.

6. Approved by strict quality and safety standards for a long and trouble-free using.



Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Item Type: Refractometer

Material: ABS

Refractive Index Range: 1.30-1.81 RI

Color: As Pictures Shown

Size: Approx. 13 * 6 * 3.5cm/5.1 * 2.4 * 1.4inch

Weight: Approx. 721g



Package List:

1 * Refractometer

1 * Electric Torch (Powered by 1 * AA battery which is NOT included))

1 * English Manual

1 * 3 ML Reflective Index Fluid



  • Lightweight and compact, easy to carry.
  • Low battery consumption for long service time.
  • Identify single and double gems quickly and precisely.
  • This refractometer features high accuracy and easy operation.
  • Specially designed for measuring the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.

User questions & answers

Question: Is it worth buying
Answer: It’s not I don’t think so it kinda oily it’s not bad at all took my extensions over sooo fast and no left over residue /tape
Question: Is the quality good
Answer: Yes, the product is valid for up to 10 years
Question: How is the performance
Answer: You get both bottles with the order! If you do not receive one, Amazon has great customer service and will replace it for you quickly.

Gain Express Gemological Refractometer 1.30 to 1.81 Ri Range

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Refractive Index is one of the most important optical parameters used to identify and authenticate polished precious and semi-precious gemstones. This Gemological refractometer is a low cost, lightweight measuring instrument used by jewelers and traders of gemstones to measure polished stones over a refractive index range of 1.30 to 1.81 RI. The instrument can also be used to identify whether a particular stone is Isotropic or Anistropic (uniaxial or biaxial).

Gemological (Gemstone) Refractometer is your primary and most powerful tool in gemstone identification. As with a typical critical angle refractometer, it will measure the Refractive Index of faceted stones.

 

Features:

  • Can identify singly & doubly gemstones quickly and accurately
  • Uniquely designed, low battery consumption and portable
  • Approved by strict quality and safety standards for long and trouble-free life
  • Guaranteed high quality and accurate testing results



Specifications:

  • Measuring Range: 1.30 – 1.81 RI
  • Minimum Graduation Value: 0.01 RI
  • Dimension: 30 x 70 x 130mm
  • Weight: 400g

 

Set Includes:

1 x Gem Refractometer

1 x Polarizing Filter

1 x Monochromatic Light Filter

1 x Mini Flashlight

1 x 1ml Refractive Index Fluid  vial 

1 x 1.5V AAA Battery

1 x Storage Box

1 x Quick Start Guide

  • Measuring  Range: 1.30 – 1.81 RI
  • Minimum Graduation Value: 0.01 RI
  • Dimension: 30 x 70 x 130mm ; Weight: 400g
  • Gemological (Gemstone) Refractometer is your primary and most powerful tool in gemstone identification.
  • Can identify singly & doubly gemstones quickly and accurately

User questions & answers

Question: does it come with a magnifying lens? If so, is it removable? Is the polarizing lens removable
Answer: These didn’t work on my saws, the air filter cover would not bolt back on, so I removed parts and rebuilt my original carbs. I also drilled out the gas line holes and installed the new lines, then applied JB Weld to reseal. Trying to stretch the tubing like they show on U tube was not working.
Question: can this be used for liquids
Answer: No
Question: what is country of origin
Answer: It does fit perfectly except there was a real pain in the butt to thread the fuel lines through the casing out of than that it was a snap
Question: Can the external light be bought separately
Answer: No that particular pulley fits a much larger saw . I ordered the same thing and it did not fit .
Question: Was shipping fairly quick
Answer: I don't believe this hub kit is for your 260. If yours is a poulan 260 pro then i believe the one you are looking for is part # 545034301 hub starter pully. I google searched it. I hope this helps you.
Question: Does this model have a polarized lens
Answer: I would be surprised if it did. This labeled as a "Poulan" starter pulley. But marks on the pulley itself say "Huskavarna". It did not fit my Poulan chain saw.
Question: is this a portable refractometer
Answer: no the part number you need is 530071966
Question: Is this a portable refractometer? I am looking for one that is not portable (small
Answer: No Jim. This mulch kit is for 42" mowers. Mulch kit for your 46" ZTR is part # 525405001. Here is a link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/AYP-MK460-Tractor-Mulch-Kit/dp/B0170801TY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511281990&sr=8-1&keywords=525405001&dpID=312VKpaHCZL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch Thank you for choosing Poulan Pro for your outdoor power equipment needs.
Question: Can i measure the refractive index with ade advanced optics gl 500 gemlogical gemstone gem refractometer without ri liquid and what happen
Answer: Yes
Question: does this come with a refractive index chart so you can identify the gemstones you are testing
Answer: The Blades are for a 42" cut if they fit your cut will be 4" smaller, not sure about the cover.
Question: Can you use it to Identify semiprecious gemstone beads
Answer: It does fit my Airens 42 inch. It lists the models on the box, most starting with 9601.
Question: what is the best liquid to use with this refractomer , 1.81 or
Answer: I do not know what other engines use this size. I believe there are 3 common sizes. Gives you about a 1 in 3 chance of being right.
Question: is there one item to id gemstones and what is it
Answer: Probably. Most use these as common parts. Just look to see if air filter looks the same.
Question: Does the refractometer have a light included or does this package include one
Answer: It fit my Craftsman chainsaw.
Question: Is the readout digital on the refractometer? In what country is this equipment manufactured
Answer: Yes there are two sizes. I have the same with my Poulan.
Question: I would like to buy this bundle, can anyone tell me if the refractometer has been reliable and held up
Answer: Yes! It is pretty much 100% oil.
Question: Is the dichroscope calcite, and not polarizing
Answer: You have to apply a new adhesive strip to reapply any glue in extensions.

Gdrasuya10 Gemological Gemstone Gem Refractometer,Jewelry RHG181 1.30-1.81 RI Professional Gemstone ldentification Gem Refractometer

Qingfus

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

All the products are shipped from US warehouse(CA or NJ)!

All the products are shipped from US warehouse(CA or NJ)!

All the products are shipped from US warehouse(CA or NJ)!



Specifications:

★ Designed to measure the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.

★ Lightweight and compact, easy to carry.

★The refractometer is highly accurate and easy to operate.

★ Quickly and accurately identify single and double gems.

★ Strict quality and safety standard certification, long-term trouble-free use.



Features:

Condition: 100% brand new

Project Type: Refractometer

Material: ABS

Refractive index range: 1.30-1.81 RI

Color: as shown

Power: 1 * AA battery (not included)

Packing size: 22*6.5*11cm

Weight: about 690 grams



Package list:

1 * Refractometer

1 * flashlight (excluding battery)

1 * English manual



Note: This product does not include refractive oil.

  • ★【Specification】refractive index range between 1.30-1.81 RI.Packing size: 22*6.5*11cm,lightweight and compact, easy to carry.
  • ★【Function】Designed to measure the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.
  • ★【High quality and Efficient】Strict quality and safety standard certification, long-term trouble-free use.Low battery consumption and long service life.The refractometer is highly accurate and easy to operate.
  • ★【Quick Identification】uickly and accurately identify single and double gems. Helps identify diamonds, moissanite and colored gems.
  • ★【User-friendly Design】With integrated light source you can use it in different environments. Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) that adjusts to the climate. Low battery consumption for long operating times.

Ade Advanced Optics Digital/Electronic Gem Refractometer 1.4~3.0 Ri Gemological Gemstone Diamond Jewel Testing Tool

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Each kind of gem has a typical refractive index due to its chemical composition and crystallization structure. Refractive index is one of most important optical parameter, through the parameters you can judge whether the gem is an anisotropic or isotropic stone. This digital gem refractometer is designed to measure the refractive index of gems with high accuracy ± 0.007 RI. With the full range from 1.400 to 3.000 RI, it can be used to test almost all kinds of gem. You don't need to apply RI fluid, just simply put your sample on the test platform and read the result on the LCD very quickly and conveniently. A gem refractometer is the primary and most powerful tool in gemstone identification. Therefore, it is widely used in jewelry stores, gem workshops, museums & collections, auctions, laboratories and etc SPECIFICATIONS: Measuring range: 1.400 ~ 3.000 RI Accuracy: ± 0.007 RI Working temperature: 10 ~ 28°C (50 ~ 82.4°F) Power source: 1 x 9V battery (included) Item size: approx. 105 x 60 x 35 mm Item weight: approx. 339g FEATURES: Wide measuring range: 1.400 ~ 3.000 RI High accuracy: ± 0.007 RI No refractometer oil needed Read results on LCD Easy and simple to use INCLUDE: 1 x Digital Gem Refractometer (main unit) 2 x Scale Sample 1 x Cleaning Cloth 1 x 9V battery. 1 x Instruction Manual Carrying Pouch Standard Factory Package

  • No refractometer oil needed, Read instant results on LCD
  • Wide measuring range: 1.400 ~ 3.000 RI, High accuracy: ± 0.007 RI
  • separate diamonds, moissanites and other colored gemstones via its Refractive Index
  • Item weight: approx. 339g. Item size: approx. 105 x 60 x 35 mm
  • Power source: 1 x 9V battery. Working temperature: 10 ~ 28°C (50 ~ 82.4°F). Gemstone must have a at lease 0.11 inch (3mm) well polished flat surface for accurate result

User questions & answers

Question: Hello will you please tell me if this will identify gemstones Already in a setting
Answer: I have a Ariens 46" and it fits a little tight but it's only one I could get to fit my mower deck. Theread is a small gap about a 1/2" at rear that will catch a little grass but other than that it works great.
Question: Hello would you please tell me if this item is able to read a stone already in a setting
Answer: The filter fits the smaller line. I do not know the size but the nipple is tapered. I replaced the line to the filter as well and it was the smaller one that comes with this kit.

Refractometer, TBVECHI Gemological Gemstone Gem Refractometer 1.30-1.81 RI Gemological Gemstone with LED Light Source Tools

TBVECHI

Product description

Product description:

◆ Designed to measure the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.

◆ Lightweight and compact, easy to carry.

◆ The refractometer is highly accurate and easy to operate.

◆ Quickly and accurately identify single and double gems.

◆ Strict quality and safety standard certification, long-term trouble-free use. 

Features:

☞ Condition: 100% brand new

☞ Project Type: Refractometer

☞ Material: ABS

☞ Refractive index range: 1.30-1.81 RI

☞ Color: as shown

☞ Power: 1 * AA battery (not included)

☞ Packing size: 22*6.5*11cm

☞ Weight: about 690 grams

Package list:

✔ 1 * Refractometer

✔ 1 * Flashlight (excluding battery)

✔ 1 * English Manual

 

  • 【Refractometer】Gem Refractometer 1.30-1.81 RI Gemological Gemstone with LED Light Source Tools.
  • 【Description】Designed to measure the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.
  • 【Features】Lightweight and compact, easy to carry. The refractometer is highly accurate and easy to operate.
  • 【Useful】Quickly and accurately identify single and double gems. Strict quality and safety standard certification, long-term trouble-free use.
  • 【Guaranteed】This item will ship from USA, delivery time need about 5-8 days. If there is any questions please feel free to contact with us, our experienced TBVECHI customer service team will response in 24 hours. If you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase, we will provide a money-back guarantee.

Digital Gem Refractometer 1.4-2.0 Aluminum Alloy RI Gemstone Gemology Gemological Diamond Tool

Shibel store

Product description

Features:

Product name: gemstone refractometer

Model: DGR-501

Color: silver

Material: aluminum alloy

Power supply: 1 9V multilayer built-in battery (not included)

Working temperature: 5~30°C

Measuring range: 1.400~2.000 RI

Product size: about 105 x 60 x 35 mm

Equipment calibration

①Press the "on/off" button to turn on the device.

②Press and hold the test button for 5 seconds, until "CAL" appears

③If the screen displays 1.487, place the 1.487 calibration block and press the test key; if the screen displays 1.806, press the 1.806 calibration block and press the test key. When "END" appears, it means the calibration has been completed.

④Please calibrate after long-term use.

⑤Please calibrate when the equipment is subject to strong vibration.

Mode of operation

① Please clean the sample surface before using and testing the platform, otherwise the grease will have a greater impact on the measured value. You can use alcohol to clean.

②Press the "on/off" button, the LCD display shows: 0.000 characters, put the sample on the test platform, please keep the symmetry of the sample on the test center hole.

③Press the "Test" button and the LCD will display the refractive index of the sample.

The package includes:

1X Digital Gemstone Refractometerg vibration

  • Each gem has a typical refractive index due to its chemical composition and crystal structure.
  • Refractive index is one of the most important optical parameters. Through these parameters, it can be judged whether the gemstone is anisotropic or isotropic.
  • This digital gem refractometer is designed to accurately measure the refractive index of gems. It has a full range from 1.400 to 2.000 RI and can be used to test almost all kinds of gems.
  • You don't need to use RI liquid, just put the sample on the test platform, it can be very fast, high accuracy, no refractometer oil, easy to read the results on the LCD, easy to use.
  • The gem refractometer is the main and most powerful tool for gem identification. Therefore, it is widely used in jewelry stores, gem studios, museums and collections, auctions, laboratories, etc.

Gemological Gemstone Gem Refractometer 1.30-1.81 RI Gemological Gemstone with LED Monochromatic Light Source Tools Built-in Light for GIA Testing ABS 690g USA Stock

Gdrasuya

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

Condition: 100% brand new

Project Type: Refractometer

Material: ABS

Refractive index range: 1.30-1.81 RI

Color: as shown

Power: 1 * AA battery (not included)

Packing size: 22*6.5*11cm

Weight: about 690 grams



Package list:

1 * Refractometer

1 * flashlight (excluding battery)

1 * English manual

 

Note: This product does not include oil



Our products shipped from the United States, quickly arrived through logistics such as UPS/USPS/FEXDE

If you have any questions, please contact us and we will respond to your information within 24 hours.

If you are dissatisfied with our products, we will accept your return and refund you

  • ★ Designed to measure the refractive index of gemstones and solid materials.
  • ★ Lightweight and compact, easy to carry.
  • ★The refractometer is highly accurate and easy to operate.
  • ★ Quickly and accurately identify single and double gems.
  • ★ Strict quality and safety standard certification, long-term trouble-free use.

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