Bands of dislocation needles radiate around a dolomite crystal (identified with micro Raman)
to create a stellate pattern in this spinel.” FOV (field of view): 3.7 mm
Photo Credit: E. Billie Hughes/Lotus Gemology
We hope you are enjoying the outstanding inclusion images that Billie Hughes has been sharing with us.
Today’s image takes us inside a natural spinel — or, as Hughes labels it, “Stellar Spinel.”
What we are seeing:
“Bands of dislocation needles radiate around a dolomite crystal (identified with micro Raman) to create a stellate pattern in this spinel.”
FOV (field of view): 3.7 mm
Notes from Lotus Gemology Hyperion Inclusion Search Engine:
Natural Spinel • Vietnam • Enhancements: None Detected (None) • Lighting Conditions: Fiber Optic: Oblique
Photographer: E. Billie Hughes • Image Number: A-005-9280-2 • Field of View = 3.7mm • Date Posted: 24 March 2026
E. Billie Hughes, FGA, is a co-founder of Bangkok-based Lotus Gemology, a respected gemological laboratory and educational resource.
Tap Here see more about this and other inclusion images at LotusGemology.com!
… and Tap Here for more of Billie Hughes’ images right here!
