Andalusite and Bowenite Optical Properties

Andalusite

Bowenite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Greasy

Waxy, Silky, Resinous, Greasy

1.2 Pleochroism

strongly trichroic

Not Available

1.3 Dispersion

0.02NA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Transparent, Translucent

TranslucentHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010)

1.5 Refractive Index

1.627-1.6501.530-1.575

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Not Available

1.8 Birefringence

0.009-0.010Not Available

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Transparent

TranslucentHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli

Andalusite and Bowenite Optic Character

Andalusite and Bowenite optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Andalusite and Bowenite Physical Properties like crystallographic symmetry, pleochroism,etc. in the crystal. Some of the optical properties are refractive index, luster, optic character, pleochroism etc. Prominent among these is Andalusite and Bowenite optic character. You might have noticed your gemologist rotating the gemstone while testing it. Rotating a gemstone along its optic axis helps in determining its optic character.

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Andalusite and Bowenite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Andalusite and Bowenite transparency can also be used as criteria for their primary identification. Although transparency cannot be the only criteria for gemstone identification, it can efficiently used in gemstone grading. Talking about their transparency, Andalusite is Translucent and Transparent while Andalusite is Translucent and Transparent in appearance.