calandrite

Calandrite is a rare and distinctive gemstone that belongs to the family of tourmaline minerals. It is characterized by its unique coloration, which typically ranges from pale blue to lavender, often with a subtle pink or violet hue. The name "calandrite" is derived from the Greek word *kalos*, meaning "beautiful," and *andros*, meaning "man," though its exact etymology is debated. The stone is most commonly found in Brazil, particularly in the state of Minas Gerais, where it is mined alongside other tourmalines.

Calandrite is a variety of tourmaline that exhibits a specific pleochroism, meaning it appears to change color when viewed from different angles. This optical property is due to its internal crystal structure, which causes light to be absorbed and reflected differently depending on the direction of observation. The stone is often used in jewelry, prized for its delicate and ethereal appearance. It is typically cut into cabochons or faceted stones to enhance its natural beauty.

In terms of physical properties, calandrite has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear in jewelry. Its refractive index ranges from 1.61 to 1.64, contributing to its sparkling luster. The stone is chemically composed of a complex borosilicate with elements such as aluminum, lithium, sodium, and iron, which influence its color and optical effects.

While calandrite is not as widely recognized as other gemstones like ruby or sapphire, it is appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its rarity and unique characteristics. It is often associated with qualities such as emotional balance, intuition, and spiritual awareness in metaphysical traditions, though these claims are not scientifically validated. Due to its scarcity, high-quality calandrite specimens can command significant prices in the gemstone market.