Andalusite

[kristin]

Andalusite

Andalusite’s body colors range from brownish or yellowish green to orangy brown, but it can be pure green, brown, pink or violet. But body color is not Andalusite’s most distinguishing feature, this gem displays such a pronounced pleochroism that the pleochroic colors are often visible through the crown of the stone at the same time giving Andalusite a unique mosaic look. Andalusite was named after the region in Spain – Andalusia- where it was first discovered. It is unfamiliar to most customers and the supply is limited. Andalusite’s hardness is 7 to 7.5 on the mohs scale, and it’s toughness rating is fair.

[kristin]

This unique variety of Andalusite is called Chiastolite from the Greek chiasma, or “crosspiece”. Sometimes called cross stone, Chiastolite contains carbon inclusions that from the imprint of a dark cross, usually against an opaque white, gray, reddish, greenish or light brown background. This gem is typically cut as a cabochon and fashioned into amulets and charms in religious style jewelry that emphasizes the cross shaped inclusion.