Idocrase
From Antique Jewelry University
Idocrase is mineral species known as Vesuvianite and has several varieties. Sometimes erroneously referred to as "California Jade."
- Californite - Mottled or Veined Green to Yellowish Brown
- Xanthite - Transparent Yellow to Yellowish Brown
- Cyprine - Greenish Blue to Light Blue
Gemological Properties
| Gemological Information for Idocrase | |
|---|---|
| Color | Yellow Green, Bluish Green, Gray, White & Brown |
| Crystal Structure | Tetragonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.713 - 1.718 |
| Durability | Fair to Good |
| Hardness | 6.5 |
| Similar Stones | Jadeite, Nephrite, Hydrogrossular, Spinel, Epidote, Kyanite, Zoisite |
| Treatments | None Known at this Time |
| Country of Origin | U.S., Canada , Russia, Italy, Norway and the Alps |
| Idocrase Care | |
| Ultrasonic Cleaning | Risky |
| Steam Cleaning | Not Safe |
| Warm Soapy Water | Safe |
| Chemical Attack | Attacked by Hydrofluoric Acid |
| Light Sensitivity | Stable |
| Heat Sensitivity | Fuses with Heat |