Scapolite - Square Emerald

Scapolite comes from the Greek word skapos, meaning rod, and lithos, meaning stone, and refers to the short rod-like crystal habit.
It is not a well known gemstone, but can be very attractive. Scapolite comes in almost all colors (yellow and violet are common). Scapolite ranges in color from pink, purple, blue, yellow and grey to colorless. The purple stones are very similar to amethyst and have closnesst to quartz characteristics.
When a stone is less transparent it is most often be cut into cabochon to often exhibit a good cat's eye effect. When the cat's eye is not distinct enough it will show a play of light similar to moonstone.

History:
Scapolite was believed to be the stone of purpose. Helping one to set his mind to a goal and then reaching it. Aids self-discipline and will-power.


Enhancement code: N


Properties:
RI = 1.540-1.579
Hardness = 5.5-6
SG = 2.57-2.74
Species: scapolite
Optic Character: DR
Phenomena - Chatoyancy (rare)


Care:
Avoid rough handling.

Major Sources:
Brazil, Burma, Canada, Kenya, Madagascar, Switzerland