What is The Gem Dugout

The Gem Dugout fills a need in the scientific community. No experiment is worthwhile if the specimen on which the measurements are to be made is imperfect. With the introduction of computer controlled measurement instrumentation, there is a need to minimize the introduction of spurious signals from everything in the experiment other than the specimen itself. The use of single crystal specimen supports for X-ray powder diffraction studies was recognized in the 1960s, but their use was rare until The Gem Dugout began producing specially cut and mounted quartz in the early 1980s coincident with the introduction of commercial X-ray diffractometer systems that included computer control. The reputation of The Gem Dugout quickly spread, and the use of single crystal supports has now become the norm in the field. The distribution of products is now worldwide. Advertising is primarily at scientific meetings and in one speciality journal. In addition to products, The Gem Dugout is devoted to education of the user in the optimization of specimen preparation and in the interpretation of the data obtained by the experiment. Half of the sales brochure covers the proper use of the specimen supports.