Titanite
| Colour | Yellow, Green, Brown |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 5–5.5 |
| Lustre | Sub-adamantine tending to slightly resinous |
| Streak | Reddish white |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Transparency | Translucent to transparent |
| Cleavage | Distinct on [110], parting on {221} |
| Fracture | Sub-conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 3.48–3.60 |
What is Titanite?
Titanite, or sphene (from Ancient Greek σφηνώ (sphēnṓ) 'wedge'), is a calcium titanium nesosilicate mineral, CaTiSiO5. Trace impurities of iron and aluminium are typically present. Also commonly present are rare earth metals including cerium and yttrium; calcium may be partly replaced by thorium.
How to identify Titanite
- Lustre: Sub-adamantine tending to slightly resinous.
- Hardness: Mohs 5–5.5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: Reddish white.
- Habit: Monoclinic crystal system.
Titanite in different forms
Stones often confused with Titanite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Titanite?
Titanite is Mohs 5–5.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Titanite?
Titanite is typically yellow, green, brown (Reddish brown, brown, gray, black, yellow, green, or red, colourless).