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Smithsonite
Smithsonite

Zincite
Zincite



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Smithsonite
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Zincite

Smithsonite and Zincite Optical Properties

Optical Properties

Luster

Vitreous, Pearly
Subadamantine, Resinous

Pleochroism

-
Very weak

Dispersion

0.010.16
0.005 1
👆🏻

Transparency

Translucent
TransparentRobert C. Kammerling

Refractive Index

1.620-1.8502.013-2.029
1 3.25
👆🏻

Optic Character

-
-

Crystal System

Trigonal
Hexagonal

Birefringence

0.223-0.2270.016
0 0.296
👆🏻

Clarity

Translucent
TransparentRobert C. Kammerling

Smithsonite and Zincite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Smithsonite and Zincite 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.