Glow Obtained: Changes in Luminescence
Luminescence, or the emission of light, is an interesting property of many materials. Certain physical and chemical changes can cause the luminescence of certain substances to change dramatically. This phenomenon is especially prevalent in certain types of glass and crystals. These substances are known for displaying a color-shifting “glow” in response to both temperature and pressure changes. This phenomenon is known as “glow-change”.
By definition, a glow-change describes the change in luminescence in a substance exposed to different environmental factors. Typically, a specific type of crystal or glass is exposed to a variety of pressures and temperatures that stimulate its luminescent properties. The crystal material emits a unique light known as a “glow”, which may include glowing in a certain color or pattern over a given period of time. Glow found to exist in some particular gems, is formed due to the tiny cracks in their interiors. A certain level of pressure or temperature has to be applied to the crystals to allow them to glow.
The most common type of glow-change phenomenon is seen in quartz and other types of silicate minerals. These materials typically emit a yellow-greenish light when exposed to either pressure or an increase in temperature. Other forms of “glow-change” have been observed in various gems, such as diamonds, opals, and rubies. These gems typically emit a deep, reddish-orange glow when pressure is applied or when a temperature increase occurs. Many gems also have special forms of luminescence referred to as “bioluminescence” which give off a bright blue light as the gem is cooled.
The phenomenon of glow-change has become increasingly popular over the past several decades and is becoming an important part of the jewelry-making industry. Manufacturers of jewelry commonly use certain materials that emit certain colors and patterns of light to enhance their designs. Glow-change has become increasingly important in the manufacture of luminescent watches and other jewelry pieces, as jewelers can now create unique and dazzling pieces of jewelry with a unique glow.
Glow-change is an interesting and beautiful phenomenon to observe. A variety of physical and chemical changes can induce the change in luminescence in certain substances. This glow can be further enhanced by cooling and pressure applied to the substance, and it can be used in a variety of ways in the jewelry-making and watch manufacturing fields. Its beauty and mesmerizing effects have made glow-change a popular feature in many types of jewelry.
