Apatite is a common mineral, but gemstone-quality apatite is rare. Even though apatite is the defining mineral for 5 out of 10 on Mohs scale of hardness, the gemstone remains unfamiliar to most and is rarely in jewelry stores. Green apatite is a favorite among gemstone collectors. The name 'apatite' came from a Greek word which means 'cheat.' Green apatite earned this name because of its close resemblance to other gemstones, and it, therefore, became unfairly labeled as the 'deceitful stone.'
Green apatite that shows chatoyancy, or a cat's eye effect, is limited and extremely sought-after especially by esteemed collectors. Cat's eyes are cut as cabochons to bring out their desirable traits. Chatoyancy is a rare optical phenomenon existing only in a few different gem types. It is characterized by an unusual light reflection that mirrors the slit eye of a cat. The effect is created by light reflection from parallel inclusions inside a stone, typically rutile needles, fibers or channels. It is best the view cats eye effects under intense and directed light such as a flashlight or direct sunlight. When the stone is rotated, the cat's eye will appear to drift across the gemstone.
Buying Green Apatite Gemstones
When purchasing green apatite gemstones, it is best to stick to what you desire and what you find appealing. As with all colored gemstones, green apatite gemstones increase in value and rarity when the size increases, clarity is better, color is more saturated and evenly distributed, and the cut is accurate and done with skill. Purchasing gemstones of the highest quality that are to your liking and within your price range are the best way to approach a purchasing scenario. Here are some tips to make your decisions a bit easier when buying green apatite gemstones.
Green Apatite Color and Hue Variations
Connoisseurs often seek out rare or odd colors like Paraiba-like blue-green apatite or leek-green apatite, which is known as 'asparagus stone.' Top grade blue-green gemstones of apatite can rival that of famed Paraiba tourmaline. Green apatite grade depends essentially on color saturation. Specimens with extraordinary color intensity are deemed most valuable. Gem-quality apatite rarely occurs in large sizes so stones over one carat can command very high premiums.
Green Apatite Clarity and Luster Variations
When cut and polished, green apatite has a vitreous luster. Gem-quality apatite typically occurs transparent, but translucent specimens do exist. Apatite is a 'Type II - Typically Included' gem type. Almost all apatite will have visible inclusions. Eye-clean specimens are incredibly scarce, especially in large sizes.
Green Apatite Cut and Shape Variations
Apatite comes in many different shapes and cuts. Transparent specimens become traditional forms such as round, oval, pear, or trillion. Fancy shapes and calibrated sizes are hard to find and command higher prices. Some green apatite exhibits chatoyancy and is cut and polished as cat's eye apatite. Specimens with bases parallel to the fibers are ideal for cabochon cuts.
Green Apatite Treatment
Apatite gemstones are typically untreated. Blue apatite is known to be heat-treated, but some are unenhanced. Most green specimens are untreated. Gemstone suppliers should always disclose treatments and enhancements made to their gemstones for sale.
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