Axinite Gemstone Information
About Axinite - History and Introduction
Axinite is a rare group of calcium aluminum borate silicate minerals that rarely occur in gemstone quality. The name 'axinite' was derived from a Greek word meaning 'axe'. Axinite's color can vary depending on its exact composition, but most axinite gemstones occur with a golden brown color. Other colors range from lilac to violet and from brown to reddish brown. Axinite is a very popular gemstone among mineral collectors due to its rarity and unusual crystal structure. Axinite's crystal system is triclinic, with crystals appearing flat and spatula-shaped. All varieties of axinite minerals share the same crystal system, and have slightly varying compositions of mainly calcium with iron, magnesium or manganese. Axinite's density, or specific gravity, depends on the exact ratio of chemical composition within a specific specimen. Axinite has distinct, good cleavage, with a conchoidal, brittle fracture, which can make the gemstone somewhat fragile compared to other gemstones, but it has relatively good hardness, ranging from 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. Axinite Pleochroic, Pyro- and Piezoelectric Properties Axinite has a distinctively strong vitreous luster when cut and polished, and it also has intriguing pyro- and piezoelectric properties. Pyro- and piezoelectric gemstones have the ability to generate an electrical current when heated or cooled rapidly, or when pressure or stress is applied to the crystal. It is a very unusual trait and only a few gemstones are known to exhibit piezoelectricity, such as tourmaline and prehnite.
Identifying Axinite Back to Top
Axinite is a strongly pleochroic gemstone that can be easily identified by its different colors that can be seen when it is viewed from different angles. Although it is not the same as 'color change', it can sometimes appear that way. Golden brown axinite can sometimes resemble smoky quartz, but smoky quartz's absence of pleochroism makes it easily distinguishable. Andalusite, sphene and barite bear a similar appearance to axinite, and hessonite garnet, chrysoberyl, topaz and tourmaline, which have yellow tones can sometimes be confused with axinite. However axinite's color is very distinctive, making it easily identifiable. Axinite Origin and Gemstone Sources Back to Top
Axinite deposits are found in Brazil, France, Mexico, USA (especially Baja California), Sri Lanka, Russia, Pakistan and Tanzania. Axinite gemstones develop and form within cavities and veins of granite. Buying Axinite and Determining Axinite Gemstone Value Back to Top
Axinite Gemological Properties: Back to Top
Please refer to our Gemstone Glossary for details on gemology-related terms. Axinite: Varieties or Similar Gemstones: Back to Top
Axinite is a group of minerals that rarely occurs in gemstone quality material. There are several varieties of axinite gemstones that are based on chemical composition, for example, magnesium, manganese and iron. A few similar gemstones are known to exist with similar colors that can resemble axinite, smoky quartz and andalusite being the most common. Since axinite is much softer than quartz, a simple scratch test can help distinguish between the two.
Axinite Gemstone Mythology, Metaphysical and Alternative Crystal Healing Powers Back to Top
Axinite is considered to be a stone of truth and it is thought to help reveal inner-truths. It has the metaphysical ability to assist in avoiding and resolving power struggles and other conflicts of authority, by increasing communication and reducing resentment. Axinite is also known as a grounding stone and can promote vitality in its wearer. It is associated with the third eye and the root chakra, and represents the zodiacal sign of Capricorn. Physically, axinite is thought to help with bone alignment and maintenance of the spinal cord. It is also believed to alleviate pain associated with fractures and injuries to the musculoskeletal system.
Axinite Gemstone and Jewelry Design Ideas Back to Top
Axinite is relatively unheard of by most people and most likely won't be found in local jewelry stores. Although it is sufficiently hard enough for jewelry use, care should be taken when wearing axinite as jewelry. Axinite is best suited for jewelry with protective style settings and limited to necklaces, earrings, pendants, pins and brooches, or other types of 'protected' jewelry. The color and pleochroism of axinite is what makes it so attractive, as well as its soft, light, highly desirable golden brown to reddish brown colors. Axinite is rather affordable compared to other gems, despite its rarity, making it an excellent gemstone choice for jewelry designs, assuming that there is a good supply. Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight. Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamond by weight in comparison. Axinite Gemstone and Jewelry Care and Cleaning Back to Top
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Axinite is relatively durable and hard. Since it is harder than most materials, caring for axinite is relatively hassle-free. However, due to axinite's pyro- and piezoelectric properties, it has a habit of collecting dust more than most other gems and needs to be wiped down frequently. Care should be taken when cleaning in order to retain brilliance, polish and luster. Axinite can be cleaned using a soft cloth a mild soap or detergent. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals or bleach when cleaning axinite. After using detergent, rinse well to remove soapy residue in order to retain axinite's attractive luster. The use of ultrasonic cleaners or steamers is not recommended. Avoid any extreme heat or temperature fluctuations because it can cause permanent damage to your gemstones or jewelry. When storing axinite gemstones or jewelry, store them separately from other gemstones. Always wrap them in a soft cloth or place in a fabric-lined jewelry box.- First Published: July-26-2013
- Last Updated: November-08-2018
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