Sphene (Titanate)
Sphene, also known as titanite, is a calcium titanium nesosilicate mineral with the chemical formula CaTiSiO5. It was first discovered in 1795 by a German geologist, Abraham Gottlob Werner. Sphene is a rare mineral that is prized for its unique properties and is often used in jewelry-making.
Physical Properties
- Color: yellow, brown, green, black
- Crystal System: monoclinic
- Hardness: 5-5.5
- Luster: adamantine, greasy, resinous
- Streak: white
- Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.6
- Cleavage: perfect in one direction, imperfect in another
- Fracture: conchoidal, brittle
- Tenacity: brittle
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index: 1.885-1.990
- Birefringence: 0.105-0.135
- Dispersion: 0.051
- Pleochroism: weak
Occurrence
Sphene is found in a number of countries, including:
- Brazil
- Canada
- India
- Madagascar
- Norway
- Russia
- Switzerland
- United States
- Pakistan
Healing Properties
Sphene is said to have a number of healing properties, including:
- Helping to alleviate stress and anxiety
- Encouraging mental clarity and focus
- Boosting the immune system
- Assisting with digestion
- Relieving headaches and migraines
Uses
Sphene is used in a number of applications, including:
- Jewelry-making
- As a source of titanium dioxide in the manufacture of paint, plastic, and paper
- As a gemstone
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