Gem Structure Chart
A gem structure chart that shows various information on a specific structure and gems of example. Details include Refractive Indexes, Pleochroism and etc.
Structure | Crystal axes and Angles | Optic Character | Refractive Indexes | Optic Sign | Pleochroism | Examples |
Amorphous | No orderNo axes | IsotropicSingly refractive | 1 RI | None | None | Opal, Amber, Glass, Plastic |
Isometric | 1 axis lengthAll at 90° | IsotropicSingly refractive | 1 RI | None | None | Diamond, Spinel, Garnet |
Tetragonal | 2 axis lengths All at 90° | AnisotropicDoubly refractive | 2 RI's | Uniaxial | May be dichroic | Zircon |
Hexagonal | 2 axis lengths | AnisotropicDoubly refractive | 2 RI's | Uniaxial | May be dichroic | Quartz, Beryl, Apatite, Corundum, Tourmaline |
Orthorhombic | 3 axis lengthsAll at 90° | AnisotropicDoubly refractive | 3 RI's | Biaxial | May be trichroic | Topaz, Zoisite, Peridot |
Monoclinic | 3 axis lengths 2 axes at 90°; 1 oblique | AnisotropicDoubly refractive | 3 RI's | Biaxial | May be trichroic | Orthoclase, Spodumene |
Triclinic | 3 axis lengths all axes oblique | AnisotropicDoubly refractive | 3 RI's | Biaxial | May be trichroic | Labradorite, Axenite |
GEM STRUCTURE CHART
Compliments ofThe International Gem Society
International Gem Society
Related Articles
Birthstone Chart
What are the birthstones by month? January is garnet, February is amethyst, March is aquamarine, April is diamond, May is...
Read More
Properties of Diamond Simulants
Diamond simulants, like cubic zirconia and moissanite, often appear in jewelry. See how the properties of real diamonds compare with...
Read More
Diamond Lookalikes Listed by Specific Gravity
Distinguishing diamond lookalikes from the real thing can be challenging. Learn how to use specific gravity and birefringence to make...
Read More
Emerald Origins: History and Identification
Emeralds from different sources can vary in quality. Learn how to identify emerald origins by analyzing the optical and physical...
Read More
Latest Articles
A Guide to Early Victorian Romantic Period Jewelry
The Romantic Period marked the start of the Victorian Era. Learn about the typical qualities of Romantic Period jewelry, including...
Read More
Malaya or Malaia Garnet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Malaia or malaya garnets are typically light to dark, slightly pinkish orange, reddish orange, or yellowish orange in color. This...
Read More
Choosing Your First Gemstones: A Rough Guide for Faceters
How should novice faceters choose their first gemstones? Learn which gem rough materials combine cutting ease, low cost, good size,...
Read More
Gemstone Coatings: CVD and More
Gemstone coatings are a simple way to enhance color and luster. Learn about commonly coated gems, different coating techniques, and...
Read More
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!