Vesuvianite aka Idocrase.
Photo Courtesy of Rob Lavinsky, iRocks.com
Idocrase
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 Bro
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 |
Idocrase Care
| Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Risky |
| Steam Cleaning: | Not Safe |
| Warm Soapy Water: | Safe |
| Chemical Attack: | Attacked by Acid |
| Light Sensitivity: | Stable |
| Heat Sensitivity: | Fuses with Heat |