Onyx and Lapis lazuli Optical Properties

Onyx

Lapis lazuli

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous

Vitreous, Greasy

1.2 Pleochroism

Not Available

AbsentWalter Schumann

1.3 Dispersion

NANone

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Translucent, Opaque, Translucent to opaque

Opaque

1.5 Refractive Index

1.530-1.5431.500-1.670

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Trigonal

1.8 Birefringence

Not AvailableNot Available

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

OpaqueHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli

Gemstones of the world (2001)

Onyx and Lapis lazuli Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Onyx and Lapis lazuli 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, Onyx is Opaque, Translucent and Translucent to opaque while Onyx is Opaque, Translucent and Translucent to opaque in appearance.