Andalusite

Gemstone :

Andalusite

Birthstone Month :

Andalusite is not associated with any particular birthstone month.

Zodiac :

Andalusite is not affiliated with any particular zodiac sign.

Chemical Symbol :

Al 2SiO5

Chemical Make-up :

Andalusite is made up of Aluminium Silicate minerals.

History & Lore :

The gemstone Andalusite is named after the location where it was first discovered, Andalucia in southern Spain.

Andalusite is often referred to as the seeing stone as it works to see the various sides of a person's character, or the various sides of a problem. Andalusite helps to bring balance and enhances memory. In addition to this, Andalusite is acssociated with the heart and solar plexus chakras and helps to cure eye problems, water retention and deficincies in calcium, iodone and oxygen.

Availability :

Andalusite is a somewhat rare gemstone that is not commonly used in jewelry. This is however very likely due to the fact that many jewelers are not aware of this gemstone, let alone the consumer. For this reason supply currently meets demand and prices are relatively low, with per Carat prices rarely exceeding US$200.

Sources :

Gem quality Andalusite is found in Australia, Brazil, Russia, Spain, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and the United States. In addition to this, there are some Andalusite deposits in the United Kingdom, although the crystals found there are not of gem quality.

Evaluation :

Andalusite is rated at 6.5 - 7.5 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness, making it a durable gemstone, suitable for every day wear.

Andalusite is found in brown, brownish-green, gray, green, greenish-brown and red. Andalusite gemstones display pleochrism, meaning that a single stone displays different colorations, depending on the angle the stone is viewed at. In addition to this, one variety of Andalusite commonly displays a cross (crucifix), which is present due to natural inclusions. This variety of Andalusite (Chiastolite), is often set in a pendant and is particularly sought after in staunchly Catholic countries due to the symbolism of the cross.

Common Cuts :

The color displayed by an Andalusite stone is often dictated by the way it is cut. Andalusite is commonly cut into Emerald, Marquise, Oval, Round and Square shapes. Emerald, Marquise and Oval cuts tend to make the stone display one central color, with a differing color at each end, whereas Round and Square Cuts commonly create a mosaic effect, blending different colors together beautifully.

Routine Enhancements :

Whilst Andalusite can be heat-treated in order to improve color, this is rarely done / needed.

Care & Cleaning :

Andalusite is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaning devices. Store your Andalusite jewelry away from harder jewelry that may scratch or damage the sofeter Andalusite stone.