Cordierite and Staurolite Optical Properties

Cordierite

Staurolite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Greasy, Vitreous

Resinous

1.2 Pleochroism

X = pale yellow

X = colorless; Y = pale yellow; Z = golden yellow

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Not Available

Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references

1.5 Refractive Index

Not Available1.736-1.762

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

monoclinic

1.8 Birefringence

Not Available0.009-0.015

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Not Available

Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references

Cordierite and Staurolite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Cordierite and Staurolite 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.