History & Introduction
Apatite belongs to the group of phosphate minerals that add up to hydroxyl-apatite,
fluor-apatite and chlor-apatite. It gets its name from the Greek word ‘apatao’ meaning
'to deceive' or ' even misleading', because Apatite stone is confused with other
crystals, especially Fluorite and Aquamarine. Apatite is not commonly used in jewelry,
but still when the stone is cut correctly, it gives bright and strong colors. Apatite
is one of the few minerals used by biological micro-environmental systems. It is
considered to be a valuable source of phosphorous, therefore it is largely used
in the manufacture of fertilizer. Green and blue varieties are used as pigments
with excellent covering power.
Even though apatite is considered as one of the known mineral and transparent gemstone,
but the quality apatite is hardly available. However, apatite is available in vivid
attractive colors as well as styles, it is favorite among gemstone collectors. Frequent
the experts search for the colors that are very rare like the Paraiba blue-green
apatite or leek-green apatite, which is known as 'asparagus stone'. Stone with violet,
deep purple and reddish are also sought after. It includes a blue variety known
as 'moroxite', which is heat treated naturally to enhance color.
Apatite is rarely found, which carries significant quantity of rare elements of
earth and is also used in the form of ore for those metals.
Recognise - Apatite stone is recognized by several testing methods.
Through Fluorescence test apatite specimens can be distinguished. Apatite is harder
as compared to calcite, and as compared to tourmaline, beryl and quartz it is softer
so a simple scratch test can even recognize and distinguish apatite. The value of
apatite depends on color saturation. Specimens consisting high color intensity are
taken to be more precious. Apatite available in gem-quality is hardly seen in large
sizes; stones with above one carat can get premiums that are high. Almost all apatite
will have visible presence. Eye-clean specimens are very uncommon, mainly the stone
with bigger size.
Usages - Apatite is the main source of phosphorus. In the manufacture
of phosphate fertilizers this gemstone plays a vital part and is also very important
in the chemical along with pharmaceutical industries. Apatite is popular among the
mineral collectors, and some of the specimens of apatite that are transparent are
faceted for collectors. The gemmy violet and reddish style is of great importance
to the collectors and ask high prices.
Buying Guide
Color - The range of colors begins from colorless, yellow, pink,
blue, green and violet. Rich purple from Maine is tend to be a rare variety. In
demand the Blue Brazilian stones are the second. Neon blue-green material, which
is highly in demand comes from Madagascar. Light-green apatite continue with the
trade term as 'asparagus stone'. The color related to the best example of the stone
can rival famed Paraiba tourmaline. In case of other gem, color saturation defines
the value.
Clarity and Lustre - When the apatite is cut and polished, the
luster is vitreous. The gem-quality of apatite comes to be transparent, however
translucent specimens do exist.
Cut and Shape - Apatite is available in various shapes and cuts.
Specimens that are naturally transparent faceted into traditional shapes. It is
difficult to get fancy shapes and calibrated sizes and command higher prices. Some
blue and yellow apatite shows chatoyancy and is cut and polished as cat's eye apatite.
The gemstone that is most ideal for cabochon cuts is the one having bases parallel
to the fibers.
Treatment - Apatite gemstones are not treated naturally. Blue apatite
is known to be heat-treated, however some are un-enhanced. The green stones are
typically untreated. Gemstone suppliers must be ready to present the treatments
and enhancements made to their gemstones for sale.
Gemological Characteristics: