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Cordierite Iolite
Cordierite Iolite
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Andalusite
Andalusite
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Cordierite Iolite
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Andalusite

Cordierite Iolite and Andalusite Optical Properties

Optical Properties

Luster

Pleochroism

Dispersion

Transparency

Refractive Index

Optic Character

Crystal System

Birefringence

Clarity

 
Vitreous
Strong trichroism: colorless to yellowish
0.02
Transparent
1.542-1.578
Biaxial/+
-
0.008-0.012
Transparent
 
Vitreous, Greasy
strongly trichroic
0.02
Transparent, Translucent
1.627-1.650
-
Orthorhombic
0.009-0.010
Transparent

Cordierite Iolite and Andalusite Optic Character

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

Cordierite Iolite and Andalusite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Cordierite Iolite and Andalusite 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 Iolite is while Cordierite Iolite is in appearance.