Iolite and Elbaite Optical Properties

Iolite

Elbaite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous

1.2 Pleochroism

Not Available

Pale green

1.3 Dispersion

NA0.02

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Transparent, Translucent, Transparent to translucent

Transparent

1.5 Refractive Index

1.52-1.561.614-1.666

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Trigonal

1.8 Birefringence

Not Available0.014-0.032

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Transparent to translucent

Transparent

Iolite and Elbaite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Iolite and Elbaite 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, Iolite is Translucent, Transparent and Transparent to translucent while Iolite is Translucent, Transparent and Transparent to translucent in appearance.