Gemstone Grading and Purity Control with WDS
Cubic zirconia (ZrO2) is a popular synthetic gemstone used as an economic substitute for diamonds in jewelry (Fig. 1). Calcium oxide (5–8 wt.%) or yttrium oxide (15–18 wt.%) are often added to stabilize the ZrO2 crystals. Moreover, other elements such as hafnium may also be present in minor amounts.
The EDS spectrum of a cubic zirconia (Fig. 2) shows a broadened, irregular Zr L peak but the contribution of other elemental lines cannot be distinguished easily. The WDS spectrum, in contrast, clearly resolves the various Zr L energy lines from the Y L energy lines and even detects Hf using M series energy lines. QUANTAX WDS with its high spectral resolution capability can thus be a valuable tool for gem grading and purity control.
Alternatives to Wavelength Dispersive Spectroscopy
QUANTAX WDS is no longer available to purchase. However, we have suitable alternatives that cover the benefits of WDS - light element detection, peak deconvolution, trace element detection and efficient X-ray line separation.
To learn more about these solutions view our page Analytical Alternatives to Wavelength Dispersive Spectroscopy.
Information about the end of sales and service lifetime of QUANTAX WDS and XSense can be found here.
