I am sure many will recognize the name of this specific gemstone from the pictures. But does everyone call it Apatite ? In today's market, the neon blue green stones are valued much more highly than greenish or yellow stones, except for the cat's-eye. The rarest of all varieties is a rich purple Apatite found only in Maine and tops the list for value. Apatite, a stone seldom found in jewelry stores and virtually unknown to the general public, is beloved by collectors for its many different colors and forms. Only with the recent availability of the neon blue-green variety from Madagascar has its jewelry use and value increased. It is now being called the 'poor man's' Paraiba Tourmaline because of the color similarity, but alas, this gem lacks the Tourmalines toughness and hardness. At 5 on the Mohs scale, Apatite must be cut, set, and worn gently. Earrings, pendants, pins and tie tacks are probably safe, but ring and bracelet use should be limited to occasional wear pieces with protective settings. Care for this stone is similar to that given Opals, it is heat and shock sensitive, so steamers and ultrasonics must be avoided.
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Now then what name do you really know this gemstone by ?
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The following are all common names for Apatite found around the world.
Apatite
Asparagus Stone
Berilo
Carbonateatite
Chlorapatite
Collophane
Fluroapatite
Francolite
Hydioxylapatite
Lazurapatite
Maganapatite
Moroxite
Trilliumite
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And I am sure there are some names I have missed.
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