Sphene (Titanite)

Sphene, also known as titanite, is known for its strong fire and rich colors. Its dispersion is higher than that of a diamond. That gives the stone facets different colors. However, it is rare to cut sphene (titanite) as a gem and use it in jewelry because it is too soft and brittle.

Nevertheless, green, transparent yellow or brown gem-quality material is cut for collectors. Sphene (titanite) is strongly pleochroic (showing three different colors). It has a high birefringence (seen as doubling of facets) and adamantine luster. Moreover, it is common to find sphene (titanite) as twinned crystals with characteristic wedge-shaped ends.

Occurrence

Gem-quality sphene (titanite) occurs in cavities in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss and schist, and also in granite. Main localities include Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Austria, Madagascar, and Switzerland.

Sphene (Titanite) Properties

• Specific Gravity: 3.53
• Refractive Index: 1.84-2.03
• Birefringence (DR): 0.120
• Luster: Adamantine
• Crystal Structure: Monoclinic
• Composition: Calcium titanium silicate
• Hardness: 5

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