Sphene (from the Greek SPHENOS meaning
"wedge" because of the usual shape of its crystals)
is a mineral, that's also known as "titanite" due to its
titanium content. These are translucent to transparent,
yellow, orange, brown or green or red gems with many
gradations between those colors. In 1982 the
International Mineralogical Association Commission
on New Minerals and Mineral Names adopted the
name "titanite" and discredited the name "sphene"
although initially the mineral was identified by both
names. The name "sphene" still continues to be
publishable in some scientific literature and persists
as the informal name for titanite gemstones.
Sphene is found primarily in Madagascar, Mexico,
Canada and, historically, in Austria. Other notable
localities include: Pakistan, Italy, Russia, China,
Brazil, Switzerland, USA. Although reasonably
available in the marketplace, it is virtually unknown
to the general public. Recent finds in Brazil and
the Far East have brought more and more of the
material to the market which has resulted in an
increased awareness of this gemstone.
Several gemological characteristics make it beautiful
and desirable as a collector's stone or, with care, for
jewelry use. Its dispersion (fire) is one of the highest
of all gem materials and is higher than diamond. The
body color, degree of inclusions, cutting orientation
and cutting style may enhance or obscure this feature.
If well-polished, the luster can approach or equal that
of diamond, but the gem is difficult to polish well. A
preference exists for stones that are lighter in tone,
especially yellows, light oranges and greens which
are able to best exhibit this gem's magnificent
dispersion.
This gem is somewhat risky as a jewelry stone due
to its softness and brittleness, but beautiful if set
protectively and worn occasionally. Like tanzanites
and some other stones it won't take a lot of heavy,
rough wear. But as earrings and pendants (where
the light can react with it best anyway) you will have
no problems. Shield this gem from knocks, heat
and exposure to acids; do not clean with steam or
ultrasonic, and it will be a spectacular addition to
your gemstone collection or jewelry case.
