How do I identify Pezzottaite?

Pezzottaite can be identified by its hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, Raspberry-red to pink color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Pezzottaite?

Pezzottaite typically appears in Raspberry-red to pink. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Pezzottaite?

Pezzottaite has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.

Pezzottaite

A variety of Beryl Group

Rare

Pezzottaite specimen - rock identification

What is Pezzottaite?

Pezzottaite is a newer addition to the mineral world and was only discovered deep within Madagascar in 2002. After its first discovery, it was mined extensively and thought to be thoroughly mined out. It wasn't until recently a new cache of this remarkable gem was found in Afghanistan.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.598-1.620
Birefringence: 0.007-0.011
Pleochroism: Strong: pinkish-orange, purplish-pink
Optical Character: Uniaxial negative

Pezzottaite Market Value Calculator

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

Pezzottaite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Characteristics of Pezzottaite

With the exception of hardness (8 on Mohs scale), the physical and optical properties of pezzottaite—i.e., specific gravity 3.10 (average), refractive index 1.601 to 1.620, birefringence 0.008 to 0.011 (uniaxial negative)—are all higher than typical beryl. Pezzottiate is brittle with a conchoidal to irregular fracture, and streaks white. Like beryl, it has an imperfect to fair basal cleavage. Pleochroism is moderate, from pink-orange or purplish pink to pinkish purple. Pezzottaite's absorption spectrum, as seen by a hand-held (direct vision) spectroscope, features a band at 485–500 nm with some specimens showing additional weak lines at 465 and 477 nm and a weak band at 550 to 580 nm.