andalusite
chiastolite of China
solid type inclusions and canals in andalusite
solid inclusions in tubes
Detailed sheet
andalusite
Identified by Delametherie in 1798, it was named after a Spanish province, Andalusia, where it was found, near Almeria.
Chiastolite the variety, also known as “Stone Cross” is a variety of opaque white to gray andalusite, which comes in elongated prisms which, when cut perpendicular to the axis, show carbonaceous inclusions forming a cross.
Andalusite is polymorphic with kyanite and sillimanite, it has the same chemical composition but the shape of its crystals is different.
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Al2[SiO5]
aluminium silicate
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Main color
yellow
Other colors
brown, grey, pink, red, green
yellow green to red brown. The dark green variety is called viridine
Color of streak
white
Luster
vitreous
Hardness
7.5 to 0.0
Density
3.05 to 3.20
Cleavage
good
Fracture
uneven
easy cleavage only in one direction
OPTICAL PROPERTIES
Transparency
translucent, transparent
chiastolite is an opaque variety
Refractive index
1.625 - 1.650
Double refraction
0.007
weak, two-axis negative
visible double refraction
No
Dispersion
0.016(0.009)
Pleochroism
variable
Number of colors
3
sometimes verystrong . yellow olive-green, brown-red rose
Absorption spectrum
550 - 455 - 436
Fluorescence
weak
yellow to green
Inclusions
observed striations of more sustained colors and small curved needles
CRYSTALS PROPERTIES
thick prismatic crystals
crystals system
orthorhombic
OTHER INFORMATIONS
Astrological sign
Cancer, Sagittarius, Scorpio, Virgo
APPROACHING GEMS
Exploited
sites
It is found in schists, in gneisses in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Spain, the United States, Russia, Sri Lanka, Bolivia, Chile. The Chiastolite variety it is found in France (Brittany), Spain (Galicia), Algeria, South Australia, Bolivia, Chile, United States (California), Russia (Kola Peninsula) …
use in jewelry
The transparent variety is rare, and its cut is difficult because of its strong pleochroism, it is used for rings and pendants. According to the axis in which the cutter sizes it, it turns to have green or pink reflections.
The chiastolite is cut flat or cabochon but it is mostly a collection stone, which used to be worn as an amulet.
Daily care
and precautions
Very fragile due to its cleavage, it is rarely used in jewelry. When it has liquid inclusions, it is very sensitive to heat.
imitations and
treatments
doublets, colored glass.
Historical
healing properties
This stone would be suitable for people looking for their balance between materialism and spirituality (Heart Chakra). It would also act on the root chakra, helping to push away the uncontrolled and frightening fears. It is suitable to all people who have occupations in service to others and who are in need of compassion.
Other
Gems
Venez visitez
notre site web
voillot-joaillier.fr
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