Sphene Gemstone Information
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About Sphene - History and Introduction
Sphene is a very rare brilliant yellowish-green, green, orange or brown gemstone with a high luster, also known as "titanite" due to its titanium content. The name "sphene" comes from the Greek word, "sphen", meaning "wedge", which alludes to the formation of its crystals. Due to its high dispersion, when brilliant-cut, sphene can exhibit a fire similar to that of diamond. Sphene has been known since 1787 and was named according to its titanium content in 1795 by Martin Klaproth. In 1801, it was given the name "sphene" by French mineralogist, Rene Just Hauy. In 1982, the International Mineralogical Association Commission on New Minerals and Mineral Names (CNMMN) decided to use the name "titanite" rather than "sphene". However, both "sphene" and "titanite" continue to be recognized in mineralogy circles, and sphene is the most frequently used gemology term.
Identifying Sphene Back to Top
Sphene can be identified by its high luster, a refractive index that is typically over the limit of standard refractometers and intense fire, caused by a high dispersion. Sphene has a similar refractive index to zircon, but can be distinguished from zircon by its Mohs hardness score of 5 to 5.5, whereas zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5. Sphene; Origin and Gemstone Sources Back to Top
Sphene deposits are found in Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mexico, Austria, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and the USA. Buying Sphene and Determining Sphene Gemstone Value Back to Top
Sphene Gemological Properties: Back to Top
Please refer to our Gemstone Glossary for details of gemology-related terms. Sphene: Related or Similar Gemstones Back to Top
Sphene is known to occur with scapolite, apatite and quartz. However, sphene can be distinguished by its higher refractive index. Sphene also occurs with zircon, which has a similar high refractive index. Sphene has a similar chemical structure to tilasite, malayaite and fersmantite. Other gemstones that can be confused for sphene are chrysoberyl, dravite, golden beryl, scheelite, topaz, zircon and idocrase. Sphene Gemstone Mythology, Metaphysical and Alternative Crystal Healing Powers Back to Top
Sphene is said to be a calming and soothing stone that protects its wearer from negative energy. Additionally, sphene is thought to aid clear thinking and creativity. In traditional Hindu belief systems, sphene is associated with the Ajna chakra; also known as the third eye, or brow chakra, which is related to the mind and previous lives. Physically, sphene is thought to help alleviate muscle strain, fever and tissue inflammation.
Sphene Gemstone and Jewelry Design Ideas Back to Top
Sphene's high refractive index, dispersion and luster make it a stunning gemstone. However, it is a rare gemstone that is not often seen in jewelry. Moreover, due to sphene's lack of hardness, it is not recommended to be worn daily in rings or jewelry that is likely to be exposed to general wear and tear. Even so, due to its remarkable brilliance, well-cut sphene gemstones do make for stunning sphene rings, as long as its occasional-wearing and care is taken to protect the stone. Sphene is best used for jewelry not prone to hard knocks and dings, such as sphen earrings or a sphene pendants, which would not be at risk of damage nearly as much as rings or bracelets. If sphene is fashioned into a ring or bracelet, protected settings such as bezel settings are best. Sphene gemstones make beautiful earrings, pendants and brooches. 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 diamonds by weight in comparison. Famous Sphene Gemstones Back to Top
American TV personality, Kristin dos Santos wore a Madagascan sphene ring by Kat Florence to the 2014 Golden Globes. In 2013, the Pimco Foundation Gallery in Southern California was host to a "Jewels of the Connoisseur" exhibition that featured rare gemstones, including a green sphene butterfly by master lapidarist, Buzz Gray and jewelry designer, Bernadine Johnston. Also faceted by Buzz Gray is an incredible 43.52 carat intense green sphene gemstone, displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in the USA. Sphene Gemstone Jewelry Care and Cleaning Back to Top
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Sphene lacks hardness, so it should be cared for in order to prevent damage. Since household dust contains quartz, which has a Mohs scale hardness of 7, simply wiping dust from a sphene gemstone could cause scratches. The best way to clean sphene gemstones is by using soapy water and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse well to remove soapy residue. Do not expose sphene to household chemicals, acid or excessive heat. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Always remove any jewelry or gemstones before exercising, cleaning or engaging in harsh physical activities such as sports. Sphene can be easily scratched by harder substances, so it should be stored away from other gemstones. It is best to wrap gemstones in soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewelry box.- First Published: July-03-2007
- Last Updated: November-08-2018
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