Scapolite

Scapolite is also called wermerite after the German geologist, A.G. Wermer. It ranges in color from pink, blue, purple, yellow, and grey, to colorless. These colors reflect the variation in composition, from sodium-rich to calcium-rich. Crystals are found as prisms that resemble sticks. That gives rise to the name ‘scapolite’ derived from the Greek words scapos, meaning rod, and lithos, meaning stone.

A caty’s eye effect can be seen in some pink and purple stones. Scapolite may easily be confused with amblygonite, chrysoberyl, and golden beryl. It is essential to know that variations in sodium and calcium in stone cause grey tinges.

Occurrence

Scapolite is found as crystals in pegmatites and metamorphic rocks like mica schist and gneiss. It also occurs in massive form. Localities include Myanmar (Burma), Brazil, Kenya, Canada, and Madagascar.

Scapolite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 2.70
• Refractive Index: 1.54-1.58
• Birefringence (DR): 0.020
• Luster: Vitreous
• Crystal Structure: Tetragonal
• Composition: Complex silicate
• Hardness: 6

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Birthstone

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