Indian researchers found that subjecting rubies to industrial microwave heat improved their color, clarity, and luster by eliminating impurities and irregularities in their molecular structure. Microwave heating is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly than other heating methods. NASA uses microwave signals to communicate with spacecraft. The microwave was invented by Percy Spencer, who accidentally discovered its potential when a candy bar in his pocket melted while testing magnetrons in a lab. He then tested popcorn as the first microwave item.
With July just weeks away, there is some good news for people who consider ruby their birthstone, as well as jewelry lovers who appreciate the gemstone’s deep red color. A team of Indian researchers recently conducted a study in which they subjected rubies to the 2732°F (1500°C) heat of an industrial microwave oven, then used a handful of techniques to compare microwave-treated rubies with untreated ones. They found that the microwave-heated rubies became more colorful after being hit by the industrial microwave force. And not only did the gems turn from a reddish brown to a light pink, they also increased in clarity and luster, attributes that are typically associated with more valuable gems. The research team determined that modifications to the rubies’ molecular structure eliminated many of the gems’ impurities and irregularities. While the team didn’t offer any practical suggestions for improving the clarity of rubies using ordinary kitchen appliances, study director Subhashree Swain of the Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology said microwave heating held promise in many ways, including be faster and cheaper than other heating measures, as well as more environmentally friendly.
Microwave magic:
NASA uses microwave signals to communicate with its spacecraft because they penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere and travel in straight lines.
Percy Spencer invented the microwave after discovering a candy bar in his pocket had melted while working in a lab testing magnetrons.
Accidentally predicting a popular future use, Spencer settled on popcorn as the first microwave test item.
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