What are Anatase Crystals?
Anatase is a mineral form of titanium dioxide (TiO2) that is found in many places around the world. It was first discovered in 1801 by a German chemist named Martin Heinrich Klaproth. Anatase is named after the Greek word "anatasis," which means "extension," in reference to the elongated crystals that are often found in the mineral.
Physical Properties
Anatase has a tetragonal crystal system and is often found as small, elongated crystals or as thin, tabular crystals. It is typically colorless or white, but can also be yellow, brown, blue, or black. Anatase has a Mohs hardness of 5.5-6 and a specific gravity of 3.8-3.9. It has a submetallic to adamantine luster and is translucent to transparent.
Optical Properties
Anatase is a birefringent mineral, meaning that it has two different indices of refraction for light of different polarizations. It also exhibits pleochroism, which means that it can appear different colors when viewed from different angles. Anatase is typically uniaxial and has a high refractive index of 2.55-2.76.
Occurrence
Anatase is found in many countries around the world, including:
- Afghanistan
- Australia
- Brazil
- Canada
- China
- France
- Germany
- India
- Italy
- Japan
- Norway
- Pakistan
- Russia
- South Africa
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States
Healing Properties
Anatase is said to have many healing properties, including:
- Stimulating the immune system
- Increasing energy and vitality
- Helping with digestion and metabolism
- Relieving stress and anxiety
- Improving mental clarity and concentration
Uses
Anatase has many uses, including:
- As a white pigment in paints, coatings, and plastics
- As a catalyst for chemical reactions
- As a component in solar cells
- As a photocatalyst for water purification and air cleaning
- As a gemstone for jewelry
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