Petalite
Consumer Information
What color is it?: Generally a pastel yellow as shown above, ranging to pink and colorless.
What is the story behind this gemstone?: This is a very unique gemstone that offers some beautiful pastel colors. It is rather difficult to find so if you see one in a store or at a gem show don't hesitate to buy it. You may not see it again for quite a while. And be prepared to see mainly small stones. It rarely occurs in large crystals. The specimen above weighs 2.26 carats and is considered a rather large petalite.
Can I wear it everyday?: Yes, for a necklace. But it is rather brittle so don't try to wear it in a ring. It will be very hard to replace if you break it.
Is it expensive?: It can be. About the same as a nice quality pink tourmaline.
Is it a birthstone?: No.
What do I need to know before going shopping?: Call ahead. Few jewelers will normally carry this rare gemstone in their inventories. Best bet may be to visit your local gem show. This may be a stone that only a lapidary or gem dealer will carry. But if at all possible...ask your local independent retail jeweler to find a petalite for you. This will be the only way you will know that you are getting the real thing.
General Information
Source: Australia, Brazil and Sweden and the main suppliers
Chemical: (LiNa)(AlSiO4O10) lithium sodium aluminum silicate
Formation: In igneous rocks, often in conjunction with spodumene (kunzite) due to lithium content in each
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Unusual Properties: None. But it will turn a flame red...if you have nothing else to do but put this rare gemstone in an open fire.
Gemological Information
RI: 1.502 - 1.518
Birefringence: .016
Optic Character: B +
Specific Gravity: 2.40
Hardness: 6.5
Transparency: TP - TL in gem quality faceted stones. May be opaque in massive formations.
Special Identifying Properties and Tests: None
Synthetics: None.
Imitations: May be confused with some feldspars and/or glass.