Cordierite and Lizardite Optical Properties

Cordierite

Lizardite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Greasy, Vitreous

Not Available

1.2 Pleochroism

X = pale yellow

Not Available

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Not Available

TranslucentAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

1.5 Refractive Index

Not Available1.538-1.560

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Not Available

1.8 Birefringence

Not AvailableNot Available

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Not Available

TranslucentAnthony et al

Cordierite and Lizardite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Cordierite and Lizardite 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.