gems, beryl, emerald, Russia, Malysheva, Russian beryl, emerald mines, Ural Mountains, inclusions

Some gems are enchanting both outside and in. Recently, the Lotus Gemology laboratory received an interesting submission of a 78.01 ct carved Russian emerald. According to the client, the emerald was carved by gemstone engraver Michael Peuster and inspired by art nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha. The woman depicted holds blooming flowers, symbolizing the arrival of spring (figure 1). Microscopic examination revealed delicate, bouquet-like thin film inclusions on the back of the carving (figure 2). Iridescent thin films are frequently observed in emeralds from Russia, and this specimen showcased several striking examples. It was a delightful coincidence to find that the inclusion scene in this stone echoed the floral motif carved into its exterior.