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Smithsonite
Smithsonite

Variscite
Variscite



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Smithsonite
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Variscite

Smithsonite and Variscite Optical Properties

Optical Properties

Luster

Vitreous, Pearly
Vitreous, Waxy

Pleochroism

-
-

Dispersion

0.010.01
0.005 1
👆🏻

Transparency

Translucent
Translucent, Opaque . May be translucent when backlit on the edges.

Refractive Index

1.620-1.8501.560-1.594
1 3.25
👆🏻

Optic Character

-
-

Crystal System

Trigonal
Orthorhombic

Birefringence

0.223-0.2270.031
0 0.296
👆🏻

Clarity

Translucent
Translucent

Smithsonite and Variscite Optic Character

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

Smithsonite and Variscite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Smithsonite and Variscite 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, Smithsonite is Translucent while Smithsonite is Translucent in appearance.