Chrysotile

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Physical & Optical Properties

Category Collector Gems
Mohs Hardness 2.5 – 4.5
Specific Gravity 2.51 – 2.63
Refractive Index 1.53 – 1.575
Crystal System Monoclinic
Luster Silky
Color various
Birefringence 0.001

Mohs Hardness

Mohs Hardness: 2.5 – 4.5
1 Soft10 Hard

Crystal System

β a b c Monoclinic a ≠ b ≠ c, α = γ = 90°, β ≠ 90°

Value & Market

Price Tier Budget (< $50/ct)

Where to Buy Chrysotile

Amazon Wide selection

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Treatments

Commonly dyed in various colors and impregnated (acetone and hot point test) - Blue Chart Gem Identification, Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, 2010, p 6 2.5 to 4.5Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references 2.51 to 2.63Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) 1.530 to 1.575Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references BiaxialGemdat.org, Management Team (2012) 0.001Gemdat.org, Management Team (2012) YesHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) Mottled, veinedHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references SilkyGemdat.org, Management Team (2012) MonoclinicHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) More from other references Fibrous aggregatesHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) Chrysotile information at mindat.org

About Chrysotile

Chrysotile is the fibrous, curly variety of serpentine and accounts for approximately 95% of all commercial asbestos ever used, prized historically for its heat resistance and tensile strength in insulation and fireproofing applications. Mineralogically, its silky, golden white fiber bundles have a distinctive soft sheen; however, its use and handling are now strictly regulated worldwide due to its carcinogenic properties when inhaled. It is not used as a gem material.

Jewelry Use

Durability 1/10

Science FYI Family

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chrysotile?
Chrysotile is the fibrous, curly variety of serpentine and accounts for approximately 95% of all commercial asbestos ever used, prized historically for its heat resistance and tensile strength in insulation and fireproofing applications. Mineralogically, its silky, golden white fiber bundles have a
What is the hardness of Chrysotile?
Chrysotile has a Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, making it relatively soft for use in jewelry.
What color is Chrysotile?
Chrysotile is primarily Various.
How much does Chrysotile cost?
Chrysotile falls into the Budget (< $50/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.
What is the crystal system of Chrysotile?
Chrysotile belongs to the Monoclinic crystal system.