Apatite Beads

This transparent gemstone offers an intense color and beautiful clarity. Apatite beads are composed of a mineral known as a phosphate, and most apatite is used as a source of phosphorous in fertilizer rather than in jewelry. Phosphate is also the mineral that makes teeth in all vertebrate animals. Gemstone beads of apatite are made from especially high quality phosphate crystals with fine color and transparency.

Apatite is based on the Greek word to deceive, as it was easily confused with other minerals.

Significant sources for apatite are Brazil, Russia, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Canada, East Africa, Sweden, Spain, and Mexico.

Apatite beads are transparent to translucent green, but also yellow, blue, reddish brown, and purple, making them attractive for jewelry making. However, most of the apatite on the market is aqua. The green variety is sometimes called "asparagus stone."

Jewelry supplies of apatite beads should be given extra special care, due to the moderate hardness and brittle nature of this gemstone. However, it's fabulous color makes apatite gemstone beads a highly useful component for earrings, necklaces, pendants, and broaches.

Apatite is associated with the astrological sign of Gemini. It is considered by some to be useful in enhancing insight, learning abilities, creativity, and self-confidence. It is also believed to improve one's coordination to strengthen muscles, and to help suppress hunger and ease hypertension.

common treatments: none

special care: fragile - protect from impact

hardness: 5