Optical Properties of Howlite

Howlite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous

1.2 Pleochroism

NilArthur Thomas

1.3 Dispersion

Not Available

Rank: N/A (Overall) ▶

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Gemmological Tables (2004) More from other references

1.5 Refractive Index

1.583-1.608

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

monoclinic

1.8 Birefringence

0.019

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Gemmological Tables (2004) More from other references

Howlite Luster

Optical Properties of Howlite are its behavioral responses towards light. While few optical properties can be identified with naked eyes, other require special instruments by the gemologists to identify them. Howlite optical properties like luster, clarity, refractive index etc. are used to determine the non-destructive methods during gemstone identification and evaluation.

Howlite luster is the quantity of light the crystal reflects when light is incident on it. Howlite which is commonly found in Blue, Colorless, White color, is Gemmological Tables (2004) More from other references in nature. It possess Vitreous luster.

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Howlite Refractive Index

Optical properties of a Howlite crystal are responsive to the small changes in composition and strain within its crystalline structure. Absolute diligence is therefore necessary during cutting and polishing of the gemstone. All such optical properties are majorly influenced by Physical Properties of Howlite.

As we are well aware, refractive index is the phenomenon which is related to bending of light through a medium (crystal). It is used in qualitative analysis of gemstones by gemologists Besides, few gemstones exhibit property of dual refractive indices. This dual nature is known as Birefringence. The value of Howlite refractive index is 1.583-1.608. Birefringence value for this gem is 0.019. So if you are searching for prominent Gems for Gemini, Howlite gem is something not miss on, since it has been a favorite pick in the gem wearing community.