A Single 1.09ct VS Untreated Natural Pear Cut Spanish Sphalerite Gemstone!!!
Pretty little Stone with nice fire!!!!
Gemstone Properties:
Size = 7.1 x 5.5 x 3.5mm
Weight = 1.059cts
Shape = Pear Cut
Clarity = VS
Color = Orangish Red
Treatment = None
Origin = Spain
Gemmological Properties:
Chemical Formula: | (Zn,Fe)S Zinc sulphide |
Crystal Structure: | Cubic; tetrahedral |
Colour: | Yellow, orange, red, green, colourless |
Hardness: | 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale |
Refractive Index: | 2.368 to 2.371 |
Density: | 3.90 to 4.10 |
Cleavage: | Perfect |
Transparency: | Transparent, translucent |
Double Refraction or Birefringence: | None |
Lustre: | Greasy, adamantine |
Fluorescence: | Yellow-orange, red |
S phalerite is a little-known gem which has a dispersion rating that is three times higher than a diamonds. This rare property known as fire . (when you turn a gemstone in the light, and it displays flashes of color) is the result of the dispersion of white light into the colors of the spectrum. Diamonds are famed for this quality,
Sphalerite is a relatively soft gem, with a hardness of only 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, So despite its amazing fire , it is not suitable for rings . Sphalerite can have outstanding luster and it is one of very few gems that are classified as having adamantine or diamond-like luster. Like diamond, sphalerite forms as a cubic crystal and has perfect cleavage . Clean specimens are very rare except in small sizes .
Gem quality transparent sphalerite is rare . Sphalerite can be colourless, yellow, orange, red or green. Most gemstones tend to range from pale yellow to deep fiery orange. The lighter coloured gemstones display the greatest dispersion. Red shades of sphalerite are also known as "ruby blende". Colourless sphalerite specimens are rare .
Identifying SphaleriteSphalerite can be identified by its yellowish, orange or honey-brown colour and characteristic resinous to adamantine lustre. Its high dispersion, cleavage in six directions and high density also help to distinguish sphalerite from other gemstones of a similar colour. Also, a streak test (done by crushing the mineral into a powder, or by swiping the mineral across a "streak plate"), produces a sulphurous odour, which makes sphalerite unmistakable.
Sphalerite; Origin and Gemstone SourcesSphalerite deposits are found in Bulgaria, Canada, Mexico, Namibia, Spain, the USA and Zaire. The best stones have historically come from Spain.
Buying Sphalerite and Determining Sphalerite Gemstone ValueSphalerite can be colourless, yellow, orange, red or green. Most gemstones tend to range from pale yellow to deep fiery orange. The lighter coloured gemstones display the greatest dispersion. Red shades of sphalerite are also known as "ruby blende". Colourless sphalerite specimens are rare.
Sphalerite gemstones are rarely inclusion-free, except in small sizes. The greasy to adamantine lustre of sphalerite is remarkable. When buying sphalerite gemstones, select specimens with the best clarity, which generally tend to exhibit the greatest dispersion, or "fire".
Sphalerite is usually faceted in order to maximize its brilliance and can be seen in a variety of shapes, such as octagons, trillions, squares, rounds and fancy shapes, such as ovals, pears and cushions. Sphalerite is a challenge to gem cutters because of its brittle tenacity, softness and perfect cleavage in six directions.
Synthetic sphalerite is known to be made. However, natural sphalerite is also available and Typically Untreated....
Since Sphalerite is a fairly soft gemstone, 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 sphalerite gemstone could cause scratches . The best way to clean sphalerite gemstones is by using soapy water and a soft cloth. Be sure to rinse well to remove soapy residue. Do not expose sphalerite to household chemicals or excessive heat. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Always remove any jewellery or gemstones before exercising, cleaning or engaging in harsh physical activities such as sports. It is best to wrap gemstones in soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewellery box.
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