Anatase
A variety of Minerals
What is Anatase?
Anatase is one of the three polymorphous forms of naturally occurring titanium dioxide. It comes in a wide range of beautiful colors, from amber yellow to pale blue-green. Although these crystals are exceptionally beautiful, they are usually much too small to be cut. Faceted gems are therefore very rare.
Etymology & Origins
Another name commonly in use for this mineral is octahedrite, a name which, indeed, is earlier than anatase, and given because of the common (acute) octahedral habit of the crystals. Other names, now obsolete, are oisanite and dauphinite, from the well-known French locality.
Uses & Applications
Anatase is a mineral form of titanium dioxide, a substance which is important as a white paint pigment, food coloring, and ingredient in sunscreen. This mineral can be synthesized in a lab, and is used in some commercial and manufacturing processes as a semiconductor.
Healing Properties
Anatase is most likely to activate the Solar Plexus chakra, bringing insight and clarity of understanding to the user. It is believed to encourage self-confidence and help the user be more secure in their decision making. It may additionally allow the user to view themselves from different aspects and provide clarity of mind for positive changes.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.488-2.562
- Birefringence
- 0.073
- Pleochroism
- Orange/brown stones - distinct: yellow, orange
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.213-0.259
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Anatase before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Anatase Localities Map
See where Anatase is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Anatase is a birthstone for the zodiac sign Scorpio.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Brown, pale yellow, reddish brown, indigo, black, pale green, pale lilac, grey, rarely nearly colourless, brown, yellow-brown, pale green, blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5 - 6
- Density
- 3.89 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to pale yellow
- Luster
- Metallic, Adamantine
- Crystal System
- Tetragonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- TiO2
- Elements
- O, Ti
Also Known As
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Anatase FAQs
How do I identify Anatase?
Anatase can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Brown color, Metallic, Adamantine luster, Tetragonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Anatase?
Anatase typically appears in Brown, pale yellow, reddish brown, indigo, black, pale green, pale lilac, grey, rarely nearly colourless, brown, yellow-brown, pale green, blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Anatase?
Anatase has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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