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Kyanite
Published: June 20, 2007 Types: Kyanite derives its name from the Greek word for "blue," kyanos. It can be an icy, shimmery blue or a rich blue like sapphire. And although it is usually pale blue or green, kyanite can also be black, yellow, white, or gray. Composed of long, splintery crystals, it has separate hardness ratings on the vertical and horizontal axes. The extreme differences make it difficult to cut.
History: Kyanite has been mined for at least a century and is sometimes erroneously called sappare ("sapphire"). It is said to create altered states, promoting mental clarity and memory, encouraging dreams, and dispelling anger. It also has many industrial uses, including in the making of spark plugs and heat-resistant ceramics.
Origins: Major sources include Brazil, the United States, Switzerland, Russia, Serbia, India, Kenya, Burma, and Australia.
Availability: Kyanite beads are usually smooth, and the pale shades are more widely available than the higher-end deep-blue pieces. Because the stone is difficult to cut, faceted
beads are rare.
Care: Avoid putting kyanite in rings or bracelets where it could easily break. Store your kyanite jewelry carefully so it won't get scratched. Avoid harsh cleaning methods (no heat, steam, ultrasound, or chemicals). |
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