Raman microspectroscopy of gemstones from a chalice made in 17321. (25th July 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jeršek, Miha; Kramar, Sabina; Ropret, Polonca; Madariaga, Juan Manuel
• Is Part Of: Journal of Raman spectroscopy. Volume 45:Number 11/12(2014)
• Page Start: 1000
• Page End: 1005
• Publication Date: 2014-07-25
• Subjects: Raman spectroscopy -- Periodicals; 535.846
• DOI: 10.1002/jrs.4560
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0377-0486

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>The baroque chalice made in 1732 contains 456 embedded gemstones and is one the most richly decorated chalices in Slovenia. With the aid of Raman microspectroscopy, in combination with gemology microscopy and ultraviolet fluorescence, individual types of gemstones and certain inclusions were analysed and determined. The chalice was adorned with 24 diamonds, 93 rubies, 4 sapphires, 152 emeralds, 101 almandine garnets, 6 grossular garnets, 68 amethysts, 6 citrines, one specimen of glass and one of agate. In combination with macroscopic observations and literature data, the origins of the diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds were assessed. At the same time, we were able to determine which gemstones in the chalice had actually been substituted. The diamonds most probably originate from India, the rubies from Myanmar, the three sapphires from Sri Lanka and the emeralds from Colombia, whereas for the other gemstones, some detailed analyses still need to be performed. At a later date, sapphire, glass, synthetic ruby and green agate were embedded into the chalice as substitutes for lost stones. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.</p> </abstract>