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
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 |
| Family: | |
| 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 |
Gemological Information for Iolite
| Color: | Blue |
| Crystal Structure: | Orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index: | 1.54-1.55 |
| Durability: | |
| Hardness: | 7.5 |
| Family: | Codierite |
| Similar Stones: | Amethyst, Sapphire, Tanzanite, Tourmaline |
| Treatments: | None Known |
| Country of Origin: | India, Tanzania, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Madagascar |