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Biotite
Biotite

Variscite
Variscite



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Biotite
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Variscite

Biotite and Variscite Optical Properties

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Optical Properties

Luster

Pleochroism

Dispersion

Transparency

Refractive Index

Optic Character

Crystal System

Birefringence

Clarity

 
Vitreous, Pearly
Strong
-
-
1.565-1.625
-
monoclinic
0.03-0.07
-
 
Vitreous, Waxy
-
0.01
Translucent, Opaque . May be translucent when backlit on the edges.
1.560-1.594
-
Orthorhombic
0.031
Translucent

Biotite and Variscite Optic Character

Biotite and Variscite optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Biotite Vs Variscite 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 Biotite and Variscite 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.

Biotite and Variscite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Biotite and Variscite 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, Biotite is while Biotite is in appearance.