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