Titanite (rough and cut set)

Item Description

Sometimes this species is referred to as "Sphene" but it is an archaic term although both are generally 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 is used for crystallized specimens. One of the great aspects of faceted Titanite is the incredibly high dispersion of the material, which this stone has in spades! The gem in this rough and cut set is from Madagascar, where some of the finest gem quality Titanite is found. It is a beautiful golden green, very very slightly included "Oval Brilliant" cut gem, but the most interesting aspect is the fact that it shows amazingly high dispersion when rotated in the light (best viewed in sunlight). The matching crystal is from the "Alpine-type" deposit at Tormiq, Pakistan and is notably transparent with a classic thin "wedge" shaped twin habit and a lovely yellow-green color. The crystal is contacted, but still attractive and good quality. The set is valued at $450 together.