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Sphene, also known as titanite, is a rare calcium titanium silicate prized for its exceptional brilliance and "fire," which is even greater than that of a diamond. Its name, derived from the Greek word for wedge, reflects its characteristic crystal shape. Sphene exhibits a wide range of colors, including yellow, green, brown, orange, and even red and black. Due to its relatively low hardness, it's typically used in jewelry like pendants and earrings rather than rings.

Key Characteristics of Sphene:

• High Dispersion: Sphene has a very high dispersion (the ability to break down white light into spectral colors), which gives it a dazzling "fire" and brilliance.

• Color Range: It comes in a variety of colors including yellow, green, brown, orange, red, and even black.

• Crystal Structure: Sphene typically forms in flattened, wedge-shaped crystals.

• Hardness: It has a relatively low hardness (5-5.5 on the Mohs scale), making it susceptible to scratching and not ideal for rings.

• Pleochroism: Transparent sphene can display pleochroism, meaning it can show different colors when viewed from different angles.

• Occurrence: Sphene is a widespread mineral, but gem-quality crystals are less common.

Other Important Details:

• Chemical Composition:

  Sphene is composed of calcium titanium silicate and is often found with impurities like iron and aluminum.

• Metamictization:

  Rare earth elements in sphene can cause metamictization, which weakens the crystal structure.

• Value:

  While not as expensive as some other gems, clean, well-cut sphene with vibrant colors can be valuable, especially for collectors.