Sphene (Titanite)

Item Description

Sometimes this species is referred to as "Sphene", but it is an outdated name and the correct name is Titanite, though both are accepted in the gem and mineral world. It seems to me that more often it is referred to as "Sphene" in the gem world and Titanite in the mineral world. Sphene is from the Greek word sphenos which means wedge in allusion to the characteristic wedge-shaped crystals. Titanite alludes to the dark brown to black color of the original specimens which were very rich in Titanium. Faceted Sphene is a magnificent gemstone, rich in fire with superb, intense colors, and typically shows double refraction. This is a good size stone for the material. It also has great bright green color with a nice "Trillion" cut. Titanite has one of the highest refractive indices of almost any gem in the world. The retail value on this gem is approximately $100 per carat.