History & CHARACTERISTICS OF SPHALERITE
- NAME
This nomination alludes to the ease with which this gem is confused with others. Sphalerite has a high content of galena (mineral rich in lead)
The Germans generally call it "Zinkblende", "blende" means blinding or misleading.
- ORIGIN OF SPHALERITE
Sphalerite in gem quality is only found in the Chivera mines in Mexico or in the mountainous massif of the central part of the Cantabrian Mountain range known as "Picos de Europa".
- COMPOSITION OF SPHALERITE
Sphalerite is a crystallization of zinc sulfide (ZnS) that has a slight zinc deficiency (Zn1-xS)
- HISTORY OF SPHALERITE
Sphalerite is a gem generally reserved for collectors and gemstone specialists. It is also found on display in museums.
Despite its absolutely amazing optical effects, it is a little-known and extremely rare gem.
- CHARACTERISTICS OF SPHALERITE
Sphalerite has an adamantine shine (similar to Diamond). Its refractive index is three times higher than that of a Diamond, which makes Sphalerite a dazzling gem when it has been well cut.
In addition to its rarity, Sphalerite is characterized as a "soft" gemstone, which can be damaged by poor workmanship and therefore poses a real challenge for gem cutters and faceters. In addition to its hardness, from 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, what makes it difficult to polish are its six split directions, which increase the carving difficulty. When it has been cut in perfect proportions, its brilliance is magnified and the Sphalerite unfolds all its splendor.
Sphalerite is found in shades of yellow, reddish, greenish or even translucent.
- SPHALERITE CARE
Sphalerite should not be exposed to steam cleaning or ultrasonic treatment.
Discover our collection of jewelry with Sphalerite.
CHARACTERISTICS OF IOLITE STONE