Sphene, also known as Titanite, is a rare, brilliant gemstone prized for its remarkable fire (dispersion), which can exceed that of diamond. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

General Description

• Name: Sphene (also called Titanite)

• Chemical Formula: CaTiSiO5 (Calcium Titanium Silicate)

• Crystal System: Monoclinic

• Hardness (Mohs): 5 to 5.5

• Specific Gravity: 3.4 – 3.6

• Refractive Index: 1.84 – 2.11 (very high)

• Dispersion (Fire): 0.051 (higher than diamond’s 0.044)

• Transparency: Transparent to translucent

• Luster: Adamantine to resinous

Color Range

Sphene occurs in a variety of colors, most commonly:

• Green (especially yellow-green and olive)

• Yellow and brown

• Reddish hues

• Rarely: Colorless or black

Color is typically influenced by trace elements like iron and rare earth elements.

Gemstone Appeal

Sphene is known for:

• Exceptional fire (colorful flashes in light)

• High brilliance

• Pleochroism – it shows different colors from different angles

• A rich, warm glow especially in green and yellow tones

However, due to its softness, it’s not ideal for daily wear rings unless well-protected.

Sources

Major sources include:

• Pakistan (highly prized green specimens)

• Brazil

• Madagascar

• Russia

• Sri Lanka

• Myanmar

Care & Handling

• Fragile: Easily scratched or chipped

• Avoid: Harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and rough contact

• Clean with: Warm, soapy water and soft cloth only

Interesting Facts

• The name “Sphene” comes from the Greek sphenos, meaning “wedge,” due to its crystal shape.

• It was renamed “Titanite” because of its titanium content, but “Sphene” remains the common name in the gem trade.

• It is often cut in brilliant or custom shapes to enhance its dispersion.

Sphene, also known as Titanite, is a rare, brilliant gemstone prized for its remarkable fire (dispersion), which can exceed that of diamond. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

General Description

• Name: Sphene (also called Titanite)

• Chemical Formula: CaTiSiO5 (Calcium Titanium Silicate)

• Crystal System: Monoclinic

• Hardness (Mohs): 5 to 5.5

• Specific Gravity: 3.4 – 3.6

• Refractive Index: 1.84 – 2.11 (very high)

• Dispersion (Fire): 0.051 (higher than diamond’s 0.044)

• Transparency: Transparent to translucent

• Luster: Adamantine to resinous

Color Range

Sphene occurs in a variety of colors, most commonly:

• Green (especially yellow-green and olive)

• Yellow and brown

• Reddish hues

• Rarely: Colorless or black

Color is typically influenced by trace elements like iron and rare earth elements.

Gemstone Appeal

Sphene is known for:

• Exceptional fire (colorful flashes in light)

• High brilliance

• Pleochroism – it shows different colors from different angles

• A rich, warm glow especially in green and yellow tones

However, due to its softness, it’s not ideal for daily wear rings unless well-protected.

Sources

Major sources include:

• Pakistan (highly prized green specimens)

• Brazil

• Madagascar

• Russia

• Sri Lanka

• Myanmar

Care & Handling

• Fragile: Easily scratched or chipped

• Avoid: Harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and rough contact

• Clean with: Warm, soapy water and soft cloth only

Interesting Facts

• The name “Sphene” comes from the Greek sphenos, meaning “wedge,” due to its crystal shape.

• It was renamed “Titanite” because of its titanium content, but “Sphene” remains the common name in the gem trade.

• It is often cut in brilliant or custom shapes to enhance its dispersion.