Glittering Stones » Stones » Semi Precious Stones » Clinohumite

Semi Precious Stone Clinohumite

Clinohumite is the other member of humite group of mineral composing a magnesium silicate with a chemical formula (Mg,Fe)9(SiO4)4(F,OH)2. The common colors of clinohumite are fashioned into bright, yellow orange gemstones. The two sources of gem quality material are the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan, the Tyamyr region of northern Siberia. It is one of two humite group minerals that have been cut into gems, the other being the much more common chondrodite.

The monoclinic mineral clinohumite is typically dark to light brownish, orangey yellow and resemble the variety of grossular. The specific gravity for the mineral is 3.2 to 3.4 and the Mohs hardness is 6. The luster ranges for dull vitreous to resinous and the refractive index is 1.631, 1.638 – 1.668 and 1.668.

Occurrence of the stone: The stone commonly found under the igneous and metamorphic rocks. They are formed as a result of contact metamorphism. Cooling of the molten magma from volcanoes causes the solidification of the moisture content, which leads to the crystallization of the gem. It is a naturally occurred semi precious stone and it is not subjected to any of the artificial treatments to enhance its properties.

The gemstone care: The gemstone must be carefully handled, since the poor cleavage of the stone makes it brittle. In order to protect from scratches, cracks and fractures, avoid subjecting the stone to ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners. Cleaning with harsh chemicals may affect the luster of the stone, so use warm water and mild soap to clean the exquisite gem. Make sure that the soapy residue doesn't enter into it, this way the quality of the stone gets protected.

Historical Facts of Clinohumite

Refractive Index: 1.631 – 1.668

Chemical Composition: Magnesium Silicate Fluoride OH

Hardness: 6 - 6.5

Density: 3.2 - 3.9

Crystal Group: Monoclinic

Luster: Vitreous to resinous

Varieties: Titanclinohumite Titanoan

Color: Brown, Orange, Yellow, Red, White

Ocurrence: Antarctica, Tasmania, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Finland, Germany, India, Japan, Korea, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Scotland, USA

Gem Clinohumite Jewelry