Gemstone Chatoyancy and Stars: illuminating gemstone cabochons reveals rays and stars where light is scattered by microscopic parallel crystal fibers of rutile (titanium oxide) or magnetite that grow within the different mineral species. These fibers grow to be in alignment along the axes of the crystalline structure producing the illuminated rays: 6 point star (synthetic red ruby-aluminum oxide with trace chromium), 4 point star (black diopside- calcium magnesium silicate), and a simple “tiger

Ever seen wood that looks like it’s glowing from the inside? That’s called chatoyancy — it happens when the grain fibers in the wood grow in different directions, so light reflects at varying angles. The result is a shifting pattern that almost looks like silk fabric, especially in woods like curly birch, tiger oak, or flame mahogany. To really bring it to life, you need an oil-based top coat. That’s what makes the figure “move” as the light changes. #antiques #vintage #restoration #furniture #d