Andalusite Gemstones

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Andalusite is a beautiful gemstone that has recieved little attention in the past and is seldom seen in jewelry.  It has recently started to gain in popularity and could be a great investment!

Most jewelry buyers stick to the gemstones that they know and so many rare and beautiful gems are ignored.  Andalusite falls into that category.  Its most notable characteristic is its unusual coloring.  It is pleiochroic, which means that it displays different colors when looked at from different angles. It is green, brown and red all at the same time!  Most pleiochric gems are cut in a way to minimize the effect and show the one best color.  A well cut andalusite, on the other hand, is cut to accentuate the pleiochroism. When cut properly they show a fabulous play of color across the face of the stone as it is moved in the light!  They are sometimes called the "poor man's alexandrite", referring to the very expensive gemstone known for its color-change properties. Andalusite is a durable stone, making it useful for any type of jewelry.  The rich, earthy colors are well suited to men's jewelry as well as women's.

Andalusite Amulets 

Other forms of Andalusite make great beads and pendants

The picture at the top of the page is a relatively rare, transparent, gem grade andalusite. Most andalusite however is a brown opaque or translucent mineral. Occasionally the andalusite crystals will contain carbon inclusions which naturally form a cross shape. This is sometimes called Chiastolite, Cross Stone or Macle. It was sometimes referred to in ancient texts as Lapis Crucifer meaning Cross Stone. This natural cross formation has made it popular for centuries as an amulet believed to have religious or mystic powers. The pendant pictured here is one of the hand-made jewelry pieces at PalmBeachGems.com

Andalusite Links 

These are some other websites with valuable information about Andalusite!
Andalusite Gemstones Information
Andalusite information, Andalusite jewelry, Andalusite gems.
Andalusite
Gemsite Gem Library
Palm Beach Gems
This is my website where you can find information on many different gemstones. You can also purchase gemstones, beads and jewelry here!
Chiastolite: Chiastolite mineral information and data.
Crystals of Andalusite containg cross-shaped inclusions of carbon. Common in some metamorphic rocks.

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by palmbeachgems

I have had a lifelong interest in rocks, minerals and gemstones. I make wire wrap, beaded and other types of jewelry. I also have been selling gemston... (more)

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