The Complete Apatite Guide

Table of Contents

  1. Apatite Consumer Information

Apatite Consumer Information

As provided and validated by various gemmological organizations, laboratories and the "World Jewelry Confederation CIBJO"

Care

Apatites are delicate – especially when subjected to heat, temperature changes, changes in air pressure (such as in an airplane)
Dampened soft fabrics with no abrasive or chemical additives, or a soft bristle toothbrush doused with water
Not recommended to use in rings

Clarity

Eye clean larger stones are quite common

Color

Different varieties: purple is a rare variety from Maine. Blue stones from Brazil with colors rivalling Paraiba tourmaline are most in demand
A light green variety of apatite carries the trade name “asparagus stone”
The recent availability of the neon blue-green variety from Madagascar has gained popularity

Treatment

Color: Most apatites are heat treated to enhance color

Cut

Cabochon or creative cut by lapidary artists