Characterization of gems by the use of color filters has always been an appealing approach because of its simplicity and the ease of examining multiple specimens.

Using these filters is simple.  Just place the stone on the viewing surface, illuminate it with incandescent light, and hold the filter close to the eye.  Observe the apparent color of the stone and match that up with the identifying chart that comes with the filter.  Choose from our selection of the following four Filter types, depending upon your needs (the photo above is of the Gem Filter Set listed below at the end):

Chelsea Filter -  This renowned filter narrows down the possibilities when identifying colored stones, especially Emeralds.  A must have for identifying many stones. Price: $39

Synthetic Emerald Filter - a 2 filter set which allows one to quickly separate synthetic Emeralds (flux or hydrothermal) from natural Emeralds. Price: $29

Tanzanite Filter - A combination color filter and dichroscope which allows one to distinguish genuine Tanzanite from all of its imitations, such as blue synthetic Forsterite. Price: $34

Gem Filter Set - A 5 filter set that includes the Synthetic Emerald Filters (2) from above, plus an Aqua Filter for characterizing blue stones (separating Aquamarine from Blue Topaz), a Ruby Filter for characterizing red stones, and a Bead Buyer's and Parcel Picker's Filter Set.  Price: $64

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