Gemstone guide
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What is Sphene?
Sphene is a variety of titanium-bearing calcium silicate, coloured by presence of titanium and iron. A guide to the gem, and to buying one well.
About Sphene
01- Species
- Titanium-bearing Calcium Silicate
- Variety
- Sphene
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5
- Refractive index
- 1.88 - 1.90
- Colour caused by
- Presence of titanium and iron
Sphene, a gemstone of remarkable allure, captivates with its kaleidoscopic play of colours. Known for its exceptional fire and brilliance, this gemstone is a true marvel of nature. Its value is driven by its vivid hues and high dispersion, often displaying a spectrum of colours that dance in the light. Our collection features exquisite Sphene specimens from Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and India, each boasting a unique palette ranging from green to yellow, brown, orange, and tan.
These stones are cherished for their natural beauty, as they are unheated, preserving their original charm. The clarity of our Sphenes ranges from IF to SI-2, ensuring a variety of options for the discerning collector. Many of our stones are accompanied by certificates from renowned laboratories such as AIGS and GRS, with certification available on request for any piece. Prices start from around $53 per carat, reflecting the rarity and craftsmanship of each gem.
Judging quality
02What drives the value
- Vibrant colour
- Exceptional clarity
- Unique cutting styles
What to watch for when buying
- Beware of overly high prices for low-quality stones
- Misleading claims about treatments
Inclusions you may see
- Needle-like inclusions
- Clouds
- Feather-like inclusions
Origin, treatment and trade names
03Where it comes from
TreatmentAs disclosed for the stones we sell; every listing states its own.
Trade names
Price per carat
04- Typical price
- $137 per carat
- Most stones
- $82–$203 per carat
- Based on
- 301 stones in our stock, updated weekly. Sphene prices by carat size →
From our stock
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From the journal
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Frequently Asked Questions
07Where do Sphene gemstones originate?
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Our Sphene gemstones originate from Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and India, each location contributing unique characteristics to the stones.
Are Sphene gemstones treated?
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The Sphene gemstones in our collection are unheated, showcasing their natural beauty without any enhancement.
What drives the value of Sphene gemstones?
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The value of Sphene is primarily driven by its vivid colour, high dispersion, and clarity. The stone's natural brilliance and fire are highly sought after.
How should I choose a Sphene gemstone?
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When choosing a Sphene, consider the stone's colour, clarity, and cut. Each piece is unique, so select one that resonates with your personal aesthetic.
Are Sphene gemstones certified?
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Many of our Sphene gemstones come with certificates from AIGS and GRS. Certification is available on request for any stone.
Shop
Sphene
Every stone shows its own price, weight, origin and treatment. Browse our sphene, or contact our team for personal help choosing one.