How do I identify Anatase?

Anatase can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Brown color, Metallic, Adamantine luster, Tetragonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Anatase?

Anatase typically appears in Brown, pale yellow, reddish brown, indigo, black, pale green, pale lilac, grey, rarely nearly colourless, brown, yellow-brown, pale green, blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

Anatase has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Anatase

A variety of Minerals

Rare

What is Anatase?

Anatase is one of the three polymorphous forms of naturally occurring titanium dioxide. It comes in a wide range of beautiful colors, from amber yellow to pale blue-green. Although these crystals are exceptionally beautiful, they are usually much too small to be cut. Faceted gems are therefore very rare.

Etymology & Origins

Another name commonly in use for this mineral is octahedrite, a name which, indeed, is earlier than anatase, and given because of the common (acute) octahedral habit of the crystals. Other names, now obsolete, are oisanite and dauphinite, from the well-known French locality.

Uses & Applications

Anatase is a mineral form of titanium dioxide, a substance which is important as a white paint pigment, food coloring, and ingredient in sunscreen. This mineral can be synthesized in a lab, and is used in some commercial and manufacturing processes as a semiconductor.

Healing Properties

Anatase is most likely to activate the Solar Plexus chakra, bringing insight and clarity of understanding to the user. It is believed to encourage self-confidence and help the user be more secure in their decision making. It may additionally allow the user to view themselves from different aspects and provide clarity of mind for positive changes.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 2.488-2.562
Birefringence: 0.073
Pleochroism: Orange/brown stones - distinct: yellow, orange
Optical Character: Uniaxial negative
Dispersion: 0.213-0.259

Anatase Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Anatase using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Anatase Localities Map

See where Anatase is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

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North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

Anatase is a birthstone for the zodiac sign Scorpio.

Associated Chakras

Solar Plexus

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Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Brown, pale yellow, reddish brown, indigo, black, pale green, pale lilac, grey, rarely nearly colourless, brown, yellow-brown, pale green, blue
Hardness (Mohs): 5.5 - 6
Density: 3.89 g/cm³
Streak: White to pale yellow
Luster: Metallic, Adamantine
Crystal System: Tetragonal