Variscite and Steatite Optical Properties

Variscite

Steatite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Waxy

Not Available

1.2 Pleochroism

MissingWalter Schumann

Not Available

1.3 Dispersion

NANA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

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

Gemmological Tables (2004)

1.5 Refractive Index

1.560-1.5941.539-1.596

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Not Available

1.8 Birefringence

0.0310.046-0.050

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Translucent

OpaqueUlrich Henn and Claudio C. Milisenda

Variscite and Steatite Optic Character

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

Similar to their colors, Variscite and Steatite 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.