Xonotlite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Xonotlite is strong and can take a good polish. However, these gems are extremely rare, both as a species and cut specimens.
Xonotlite is strong and can take a good polish. However, these gems are extremely rare, both as a species and cut specimens.
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for full access to our price guide (updated monthly).Xonotlite Value
Comments
Lapidaries have cut translucent (not truly transparent) faceted stones up to several carats in size from Italian material.
Synthetics
Researchers have synthesized xonotlite via the hydrothermal method. The synthetic material has been used in powder form for industrial purposes, such as absorption, insulation, and pigment extension. However, no jewelry use for this material is known.
Enhancements
None known.
Sources
Mexico and the Vicenza region of Italy have produced gem-quality, facetable material.
- Tetela de Xonotla, Mexico.
- Laghi di Posina, Vicenza, Italy.
Other notable sources include the following:
- United States: California; Michigan; Puerto Rico; Virginia.
- Canada; Japan; South Africa.
Care
Despite a mid-range hardness (6), xonotlites have greater resistance to blows than many jewelry gemstones. They have a "tough" tenacity, while most gemstones only rank as "brittle." Nevertheless, you're more likely to find these stones in mineral collections than in jewelry collections. Consult our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide for care recommendations.
Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA
Dr. Joel E. Arem has more than 60 years of experience in the world of gems and minerals. After obtaining his Ph.D. in Mineralogy from Harvard University, he has published numerous books that are still among the most widely used references and guidebooks on crystals, gems and minerals in the world.
Co-founder and President of numerous organizations, Dr. Arem has enjoyed a lifelong career in mineralogy and gemology. He has been a Smithsonian scientist and Curator, a consultant to many well-known companies and institutions, and a prolific author and speaker. Although his main activities have been as a gem cutter and dealer, his focus has always been education.
International Gem Society
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