Cordierite and Hematite Optical Properties

Cordierite

Hematite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Greasy, Vitreous

Not Available

1.2 Pleochroism

X = pale yellow

O = brownish red; E = yellowish red

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Not Available

OpaqueHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references

1.5 Refractive Index

Not Available2.690-3.220

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Trigonal

1.8 Birefringence

Not Available0.280

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Not Available

OpaqueHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli

Cordierite and Hematite Optic Character

Cordierite and Hematite optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Cordierite and Hematite 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 Cordierite and Hematite 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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Cordierite and Hematite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Cordierite and Hematite 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, Cordierite is Not Available while Cordierite is Not Available in appearance.