Variscite and Cordierite Optical Properties

Variscite

Cordierite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Waxy

Greasy, Vitreous

1.2 Pleochroism

MissingWalter Schumann

X = pale yellow

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

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

Not Available

1.5 Refractive Index

1.560-1.594Not Available

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

1.8 Birefringence

0.031Not Available

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Translucent

Not Available

Variscite and Cordierite Optic Character

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

Compare Gems for Virgo

Variscite Vs Aragonite

Variscite Vs Amazonite

Variscite Vs Garnet

Variscite and Cordierite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Variscite and Cordierite 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, Variscite is Opaque . May be translucent when backlit on the edges. and Translucent while Variscite is Opaque . May be translucent when backlit on the edges. and Translucent in appearance.