Such a mineral as titanite (the second name is sphene) is widely known in the field of jewelry making. This attractive mineral is titanium silicate, and from there came the name of this nugget. The stone combines various rocks and frozen magma. An article dedicated to this amazing mineral.
Stone color
Experts say that the color of the stone strongly depends on the inclusions of other minerals and various impurities. Consider the most popular options.
- Indigo color is obtained by combining cerium with yttrium.
- The most valuable and expensive specimens - stones, which include chrome. The result is an attractive green color.
- Shades of yellow and brown indicate the content of ferrum in the inclusions.
- Colorless, transparent crystals are very rare.
- Also, another rare specimen - triple color. The combination produces unique stones.
When inspecting natural minerals, you may notice an uneven color. Some parts of the stone may differ in saturation and particular brightness, while other faces may be pale.
Also, the stones have a dispersion. This is the effect of discoloration depending on the refraction of the sun in the mineral.
Separately, experts note the excellent aesthetic qualities of the stone. This gem surprises with a variety of colors, thanks to which titanite is actively used in the manufacture of jewelry. Elegant gloss and play are added to the original color.
Properties
- The chemical formula of the sphere is CaTiSiO5.
- Similar minerals are Vesuvian and Pomegranate.
- The density indicator is 23.4-3.54 g / cm3.
- The mineral can have both glass and diamond glitter.
- Mohs hardness ranges from 5 to 5.5.
- Mostly stones have a simple form.
Prevalence and deposits
Despite the fact that this stone is found in small quantities, there are many deposits of this gem. Looking for titanite in acid and alkaline soils. In the form of crystals, this mineral is stored in the veins of the Alpine type. Large stones are found in syenitic pematites. Very rarely, experts find titanite in metamorphic soils and contact-metasomatic formations. The following large deposits of gem are distinguished.
- Kola Peninsula. This region is considered the largest mineral deposit.
- On the territory of the Urals, deposits of stone are located in the Ilmensky mountains. At this place, gems were found, the size of which reached 12 centimeters.
- Near the city of Neroika, which is located in the Northern Urals, titanite is also mined, but smaller specimens, no more than 3 centimeters.
- In Europe, famous deposits are located in Sweden (Binnental, Zermatt and Gotthard).
- Within the borders of Italy, sphenes are mined in the Piedmont region.
- It is also known that mineral deposits are located in Austria, Norway, Sri Lanka, Canada.
Using
The above mineral belongs to the class of semi-precious stones. This stone can not boast of special strength and hardness, however, it surpasses such specimens as ruby, topaz and emerald in optical qualities (light refraction). The only stone he concedes is diamond.
To prepare a stone for inlaying a piece of jewelry, it needs processing. Masters use brilliant or mixed cut. Due to the low strength, only these 2 methods are suitable for the mineral. It is worth noting that in jewelry it is practically not used together with other stones. Combinations are very rare.
For processing choose gems of green or yellow color. Also in demand options are light brown. Due to the presence of zinc and chromium in them, such specimens have increased strength.
The mass of polished minerals varies from 1 to 6 carats. The cost of stones depends not only on its size, but also on the option of cut and color. In addition, the price is influenced by the individual markup of the manufacturer and the store. It is very rare to find stones for 20 carats.
Mineral Features
Some believe that the stone has special healing properties, which manifest themselves in direct contact with it. Mineral is able to relieve headaches, including migraines. It also has a positive effect on the state of vision. If you suffer from constant pressure surges, then this stone is ideal for you due to special healing qualities.
There is an opinion who stone is able to relieve stress, nervous breakdowns and stabilizes the nervous system. As a result of these positive changes, mental activity improves. Professional lithotherapists recommend using a yellow mineral to clean toxins, slags and various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. With regular wear gem It has a positive effect on metabolism and improves appetite.
Magical properties
Among psychics there is an opinion that natural sphene is able to protect its owner from negative energy, which actively accumulates in large and noisy metropolitan areas. Also, the owner will be surrounded by positive attention and favor from others. Jewelry from this stone is advised to wear to people who lead a secular lifestyle or often perform in public, for example, artists.
Titanite has the ability to give a person an oratorical gift, as well as leadership qualities of the organizer. Also among the positive qualities of the stone received the reputation of a mineral that brings prosperity. If you conceive a good purpose, the stone will help in its implementation. Great luck and universal recognition brings a gold ring, decorated with natural titanium.
In some European countries, there is an opinion that the amulet with sphene has a positive effect on the development of intellectual abilities, and also improves the state of memory. Gem activates both spiritual and mental development.
It is interesting
Paranormal people use gems to make protective amulets that protect them from thieves, fires, and other troubles. If you are looking for a helper to focus and concentrate on a specific goal, a sphene will be a wonderful gift for you.
The inhabitants of ancient Egypt called the above mineral gem of the sun god Ra. Minerals were used as a talisman by priests who conducted various rites. Because of the bright lights and expressive tints, people believed that a piece of sunny color was sealed in the stone.
There was also the practice of making collars for cats with sphene inserts in order to protect pets.
Appreciated this mineral and often used by followers of the cult of voodoo, which is actively developed in the United States, especially in New Orleans.
Proper care
Like all gems, titanite needs periodic cleaning. When viewed from the point of view of the special properties of the mineral, the stone collects a negative in itself that attacks its owner. Because of this, you should regularly flush the gem under running water. After this cleaning procedure, gently wipe the stone with a piece of soft cloth. It is forbidden to use chemical compounds with aggressive ingredients for cleaning natural crystals.
Such substances can damage the structure of stones, as well as adversely affect the color. Store jewelry with titanium is necessary separately from other jewelry and stones. They can easily damage a fragile gem.
You can look at the titanite gem closer in the next video.
