A variety of kyanite, Himalayan Kyanite is also known as the gem from the 'Roof of the World,' to pay homage to its high-altitude origin in Nepal's Himalayan region. Named after the Greek word kyanos, meaning "blue," kyanite gleams a vivid royal blue. This earns it comparisons with the finest Ceylon and Kashmir Sapphire. Kyanite is strongly anisotropic, meaning it has a different hardness depending on the crystal axis direction. Due to this variation in hardness, the mineral was once commonly called disthene, which means "two strengths."
Determining Kyanite Value
Is Himalayan Kyanite valuable? The value of Himalayan Kyanite primarily depends on its color. In addition, clarity, cut, and carat weight all factor into the value of a gem. These guidelines will help you choose the perfect stone for your collection.
THE HISTORY OF KYANITE
Its name is derived from the Greek word 'kuanos' or 'kyanos', which means 'deep blue', alluding to its typical blue color. However, in addition to blue, kyanite can also be colorless, white, gray, green, orange or yellow. With kyanite, color is typically not consistent throughout. In fact, most stones exhibit areas of light to dark color zones, along with white streaks or blotches. Kyanite is a polymorph of both andalusite and sillimanite. Polymorph gemstones share similar chemical compositions, but they exhibit different crystal structures. Kyanite forms as triclinic crystals, while andalusite and sillimanite are both orthorhombic.
KYANITE ORIGIN AND SOURCES
Brazil, Cambodia, and Burma are primary sources of kyanite. However, stones generally show inconsistent colors. Usually, they display a grayish tone and are not fully transparent. This limits their use as a gemstone.
However, the finds in Nepal of high-quality kyanite have been delivering gemstones of exceptional blue color and transparency.
In 1995, prospectors found Himalayan Kyanite in the Kali Gandaki region of Nepal. Located on the Nepalese plateau, in the kingdom of Mustang, it is one of Earth's highest points.
How is Himalayan Kyanite Mined?
Kyanite occurs in metamorphic rocks from the mountainous terrain of the Himalayan belt. The mine is hard to reach due to the high altitude, rugged-rocky roads, and dense forestation.
Local villagers are the primary miners and commute by motorbike. Otherwise, it takes around two days to walk to the mine. Mining takes place for only about six months per year, as heavy snow falls in the winter.
Excavation of Himalayan Kyanite uses traditional mining techniques, also known as small-scale artisanal mining. It uses simple manual tools, such as shovels, pickaxes, hammers, chisels, and pans. Highly skilled workers are involved in extracting and selecting quality stones.
Kyanite Varieties And Colors
The deep blue of Himalayan Kyanite is reminiscent of a beautiful midnight ocean. It shows uneven shades of blue in a single specimen. These lighter and darker color zones and streaks often present in the center.
Himalayan Kyanite Clarity
Kyanite can be transparent to translucent. Transparent specimens are more desirable. Almost all kyanite stones exhibit some visible inclusions. Color zoning is often mistaken for internal inclusions. Stones with eye-clean clarity command higher prices.
Kyanite Gemstone uses and Jewelry Design Ideas
This classic gemstone adds the royal touch to your styling. Its deep blue flatters all skin types and complements various metal settings, including sterling silver, but also yellow, white, and rose gold. It is best used for earrings and pendants if you wish to wear it daily. For occasional wear, ring and bracelet are good choices.
This stunning gemstone jewelry pairs well with white, orange, yellow, and red. For classic glam, style it with black!
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