Seelets

Seelets are small, often translucent, crystalline inclusions found within larger mineral crystals. They are typically composed of material that was trapped within the host crystal as it grew. The composition of seelets can vary widely, depending on the geological conditions and the minerals present during crystal formation. Common seelets include tiny mineral grains, fluid inclusions containing water or other liquids, or even gas bubbles.

The presence of seelets can provide valuable information to gemologists and geologists. By studying the type, size, and distribution of seelets within a gemstone, it is possible to deduce details about the gem's origin, formation environment, and growth history. For instance, the presence of specific mineral inclusions might indicate that a gemstone formed in a particular type of rock or at a certain depth. Fluid inclusions can reveal the temperature and pressure at which the crystal grew, and can sometimes contain evidence of the chemical composition of the fluids present.

In some cases, seelets are considered undesirable as they can affect the clarity and brilliance of a gemstone, potentially lowering its value. However, in other instances, unique or interesting seelets can be a characteristic feature, adding to the gem's individuality and scientific interest. Certain types of seelets, such as "silk" in corundum (rubies and sapphires), are even used as diagnostic markers to identify the origin and authenticity of gemstones. The study of seelets is an important part of gemological analysis.