Gem Library

BUYER’S OVERVIEW:
Axinite is considered to be a semi-precious gemstone and while limited in nature, gems of good color and size are available, however, faceted stones above 1 carat are rare. Despite being a bit brittle, Axinite’s brilliance and sumptuous colors ranging from a rich clove color to a vivid blue, make it a exquisite and unique gemstone that is keenly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Currently, the most in demand colors of Axinite are the earth toned browns.

COLOR:
Axinite comes in a wide range of colors including brown, purplish brown (clove), brownish yellow, violet and blue.

APPEARANCE:
Transparent to translucent, Axinite is usually included.

SIZE RANGE:
Melle (0.01 carat) to 5 carats; stones above 1 carat are rare.

TYPICAL CUTTING STYLES:
Transparent: faceted, most cutting styles are available.   Translucent: faceted, most cutting styles are available.

POSSIBLE ENHANCEMENTS & TREATMENTS:
Axinite has no known enhancements.

HARDNESS:
6½ to 7 on the Mohs scale.

BEST USE OF THE GEMSTONE:
Axinite is not a strong gemstone and as such, earrings, pendants, pins, and tie tacks are probably the safest choice for this stone. Rings should be limited to occasional wear and the stones should be set with a protective setting.

CARE & CLEANING:
It is best to never expose colored gemstones to cleaning solvents or chemicals of any kind. Common cleaning methods include: Ultrasonic: never
Steamer: never
Warm soapy water: safe
Reaction to Chemicals: can be damaged by acids.
Reaction to Heat: somewhat sensitive.
Stability to Light: generally stable after prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV light.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THIS GEMSTONE:
The name Axinite is from the Greek “acine”, meaning axe for the axe-like shape of the crystal formations. On an excursion in the Alps in 1797, mineralogist, R. J. Hauy discovered some highly vitreous, wedged-shaped crystals that looked like schorl, the black variety of tourmaline. That incorrect identification, ‘vitreous schorl’, is still used today. Axinite is actually a series name for a group of minerals. Ferro-Axinite: iron rich, lilac brown to black. Magnesio-Axinite: magnesium rich, pale blue to gray. Manganaxinite: manganese rich, yellow-orange. Tinzenite: iron and manganese intermediate, yellow. Gem quality material is found in several counties in California, Sri Lanka, and the French Alps. Despite being a bit brittle, its brilliance and sumptuous colors make it a unique and exquisite gemstone.

DESIGNATION:
This gem has a long history but has no traditions currently associated with it.

GEM LORE