Andalusite is a brilliant pleochroism displaying lovely olive green and brick red colors. This beautiful gemstone combines two minerals, Kyanite and Sillimanite, to form this elegant mineral used in making jewelry.
Nature and Appearance of the Andalusite
Andalusite is a strongly pleochroic gemstone with a hardness range from 7 to 7.5. It has an interesting tone and is durable, attracting most jewelry lovers. Its crystals are often transparent even though it is abundant in nature. The gemstones are mostly mined in Brazil and found in stream beds or hillsides embedded in clay. Aside from that, they are also found in some areas of Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the Inyo Mountains in California in the USA.
Andalusite can reflect shades of yellow, olive-green, and reddish-brown colors within a single gemstone. The reflected colors vary depending on the viewing angle and how it has been cut. Some can show multiple colors even on viewing from a single angle. These colorful gems are important in making Andalusite Jewelry items like rings and pendants.
Varieties of Andalusite
The Andalusite is a gemstone with various versions that come in different colors and appearances. They include; the Andalusite Chiastolite gem, which contains a unique cross pattern in the interior cross-section of the crystal. We also have the Viridine Andalusite, which contains a distinctive bright green to an olive-green color.
The last variety of the Andalusite is the Cat’s eye. A good effect characterizes this variety in cabochons or dome-shaped Andalusite created by a fibrous inclusion.
How Special is the Andalusite Gemstone?
Andalusite is a very rare, valuable gem with a history of mistaken identity. It has a special ability to turn into different forms, which have been collected for centuries as a Talisman. It is the movement of colors that makes this gem unique. The gem contains a crystal structure that makes it change color when turned from side to side.
It is very rare to get large sizes of the gem. Still, nevertheless, they contain durability and extreme value that makes them a favourite gem for jewelry, especially men’s jewelry, due to their masculine appeal.
Andalusite has a unique feature where, when Kyanite, one of the components of Andalusite, is subjected to higher temperatures and pressure; it turns into Sillimanite. Glamorously, Andalusite can withstand extremely high temperatures without developing a change in its structure. This feature has made it possible for it to be used in making some spark plugs and furnaces.
Importance of Andalusite Gem
Everyone knows the basic function of most gemstones in making jewelry; however, besides just making jewelry, Andalusite has several other important uses. Andalusite is believed to be a remedy for sending away evil spirits or simply turning bad luck into good luck. It is also considered to be a stress reliever. Additionally, Andalusite is regarded as aiding in dealing with depression.
Self-confidence is also a factor credited with being boosted by the gem. Moreover, the stone is believed to regulate sleep and help relieve the paralysis of nerves, muscles and joints. Other beliefs are wearing the crystal aids in reducing fevers, arthritis pain, and joint inflammation.
Distinguishing Features of The Gem Quality
With the different qualities of the stones available in the market, it may be difficult to differentiate a premium quality stone from an average one. However, there are several criteria that you can use to know that.
The first one is clarity, Andalusite often contains tiny needle-like features, but as long as they do not have pleochroism, they are good to go. The second factor is the Carat weight. Bigger gems cost more than smaller gems. This factor explains why the Brazilian gems are more expensive since they contain more carats.
The last factor is the cutting of the gem. Poorly cut gems are dull and fail to reflect color play, therefore having a lower value.
Conclusion
As much as we have a wide variety of gems in the market, you must be aware of gems manufactured in the laboratory. Therefore, you must get the exact cut details before purchasing an Andalusite gem. You must also be careful not to get duped by the lower prices of some gems in the market.