Table-top polariscope PKA13

Professional table-top polariscope for combination with a cold light source

Polariscopes show whether the material exhibits single or double refraction. They also show elongation and twinning, which helps distinguish artificial from real gems.

The PK13 polariscope comes with an additional conoscopic lens that can be positioned between the polarizing filters. If a stone is held between the polariser and the additional lens and viewed through the analyser in the dark position, so-called axial images can be observed if positioned appropriately.

Details at a glance:

• The PKA13 consists of a polariscope stand with a mobile holder for the polariser, analyser and conoscope lens
• A light guide can be connected to the side of the polariscope stand. This is used to connect illumination from an external cold light source with a gooseneck light guide
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 100mm x 100mm x 125mm
• Weight: 250g

Practical examples and tips for the investigation with the polariscope and the determination of gemstone imitations or the differentiation of ruby or tourmaline, can be found in the article: Distinguishing gemstones from glass.

You can find background information on investigations with the polariscope in the Polariscope methods article.