Sphene
Buyer’s Guide

Colour

Colour is a key factor, with the most valued stones exhibiting bright green, golden-green, or yellow-green hues. Important considerations include:

• Vivid medium-to-bright green tones
• Even colour distribution
• Minimal brown or yellow undertones
• Strong light return and brilliance

Duller or uneven stones are less desirable, while vivid, well-saturated sphene stands out for its brilliance

Clarity

High-quality sphene is typically eye-clean, though minor internal inclusions are common. Stones with visible inclusions or fractures are less valuable, as sphene is sensitive to impact.

Cut

Cut greatly influences sphene’s optical performance. Well-cut stones maximise fire, brilliance, and colour intensity. Important aspects include:

• Accurate facet alignment
• Symmetry and proportion
• Depth that enhances brilliance
• Polished, smooth surfaces

Because of sphene’s high dispersion, precise cutting is essential to display its sparkling, rainbow-like flashes.

Carat Weight

Sphene crystals are typically small, so larger stones are rare. Price increases with size, but clarity and cut remain paramount.
When comparing stones:

• Smaller stones with excellent brilliance may be more valuable than larger, poorly cut stones
• Larger, high-clarity stones are exceptionally rare and highly prized