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Rubellite is a red or pink variety of tourmaline, known for its clarity and hexagonal prism growth. It's a member of the elbaite group and is sometimes mistaken for ruby, though it's considered a rarer gem within the tourmaline family. The color of rubellite ranges from pink to purplish-red, with the deeper, more saturated tones being the most valuable.

Here's a more detailed description:

Color: Rubellites can display a range of colors, including pink, red, purplish-red, and even orangish-red. The most prized rubellites are those with a strong, saturated red color.

Composition: Rubellite is a lithium-rich, iron- and magnesium-free tourmaline. Its molecular structure includes Na(Li,Al)AlBSiO (OH)(OH,F). Manganese is also present in rubellite, contributing to its reddish-pink hue.

Other Properties:

• Hardness: Rubellites have a Mohs hardness of 7-7.5.

• Cleavage: They have no cleavage.

• Luster: Rubellites exhibit a vitreous (glassy) luster.

• Transparency: They can be transparent to translucent.

• Optical Effects: Some rubellites may display pleochroism (color change) and sometimes chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).

• Inclusions: Rubellites often contain inclusions.

Uses and Significance:

• Jewelry: Rubellites are highly valued as gemstones, particularly in jewelry.

• Metaphysical: Some people believe rubellites have metaphysical properties, such as promoting love and passion