Rhodochrosite and Smithsonite Optical Properties

Rhodochrosite

Smithsonite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous

Vitreous, Pearly

1.2 Pleochroism

Weak

AbsentWalter Schumann

1.3 Dispersion

0.020.01

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Transparent, Opaque, Transparent to nearly opaque

Translucent

1.5 Refractive Index

1.601.620-1.850

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Trigonal

1.8 Birefringence

0.208-0.2200.223-0.227

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Transparent to nearly opaque

Translucent

Rhodochrosite and Smithsonite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Rhodochrosite and Smithsonite 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, Rhodochrosite is Opaque, Transparent and Transparent to nearly opaque while Rhodochrosite is Opaque, Transparent and Transparent to nearly opaque in appearance.