Variscite and Mellite Optical Properties

Variscite

Mellite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Waxy

Vitreous

1.2 Pleochroism

MissingWalter Schumann

Weak: yellowish brown yellowAnthony et al

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

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

Gemmological Tables (2004) More from other references

1.5 Refractive Index

1.560-1.5941.509-1.541

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Not Available

1.8 Birefringence

0.0310.030

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Translucent

TransparentUlrich Henn and Claudio C. Milisenda

Variscite and Mellite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Variscite and Mellite 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.