Sphene

Sphene is a very rare brilliant yellowish-green, green, orange or brown gemstone with a high lustre, also known as “titanite” due to its titanium content. The name “sphene” comes from the Greek word, “sphen”, meaning “wedge”, which alludes to the formation of its crystals. Due to its strong dispersion, when brilliant-cut, sphene can exhibit a fire similar to that of diamond. Sphene is 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. Sphene deposits are found in Brazil, Burma (Myanmar), India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mexico,Austria, Sriu Lanka (Ceylon) and the USA. Sphene is not generally treated or enhanced, though the color can be changed to red or orange by heating. Most sphene gemstones are untreated and naturally orange and reddish sphene is available.