Spessartine
What is Spessartine?
Spessartine is a member of the garnet group of minerals. It is prized for its vibrant orange to reddish-orange colors, which are caused by the presence of manganese. Spessartine is a relatively rare gemstone, but it is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts due to its beauty and brilliance.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.790 - 1.810
- Birefringence
- None
- Pleochroism
- Weak to distinct, depending on color
- Optical Character
- Isotropic
- Dispersion
- 0.020
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Spessartine 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.
Spessartine Localities Map
See where Spessartine is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Orange, reddish-orange, yellowish-orange, red, brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7 - 7.5
- Density
- 4.12 - 4.18 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to brownish-orange
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Mn,Fe)3Al2(SiO4)3
- Elements
- Silicon, Oxygen, Aluminum, Manganese
Also Known As
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Spessartine FAQs
How do I identify Spessartine?
Spessartine can be identified by its hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Orange color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Spessartine?
Spessartine typically appears in Orange, reddish-orange, yellowish-orange, red, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Spessartine?
Spessartine has a hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.