
Today we will talk to you about a rare gem, loved by collectors but still little known to the general public, capable of breaking down light into a rainbow of colors superior to that of any other precious stone: Sphene (also known as Titanite).
At Virano Gioielli, we’ve always cultivated a deep passion for colored stones. Not just the more well-known ones, like rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, but especially the unconventional ones, rare to find everywhere, like opals, Paraiba tourmalines, and morganites.
What is Sphene?
Sphene is a calcium titanium silicate. Its name comes from the Greek sphenos (wedge), due to the characteristic shape of its crystals. Although it is a mineral known to geologists, its “gem” quality—that is, the transparent and pure quality suitable for jewelry—is extremely rare.
This stone was discovered in the late 18th century in the Bavarian Forest. Its most important deposits are found in Myanmar, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Canada, and the USA.
The colors of Sphene can vary from yellow, yellowish green (also called chrome Sphene) which is also one of the most requested colors, to red, black and brown.
Characteristics
A gem’s ability to split white light into the colors of the rainbow. Sphene has a higher dispersion than diamond. This means that when you move the stone, you can see much more intense flashes of red, orange, and blue.
As light enters the stone, it splits into two rays. This effect gives sphene incredible visual depth and an almost “electric” sheen.
Many specimens display different colors depending on the angle from which they are viewed (for example, changing from forest green to golden yellow).
Because it’s a softer stone than sapphire or diamond, sphene requires a little more care. It’s the perfect choice for special occasion jewelry or for pieces that aren’t subject to constant wear, like earrings and necklaces.
Our jewel with the Sphene
For our new collection this year, we decided to create a piece of jewelry featuring this new gemstone. We decided to create a necklace featuring a pear-cut sphene surrounded by tsavorites.
A youthful and fashionable necklace, for those seeking a unique, original and trendy jewel.
In our goldsmith’s workshop in Turin, we create unique jewelry and are always looking for new precious stones to use in our creations. We also create custom jewelry. For more information, contact us at info@viranogioielli.it or WhatsApp us at 3207432000.
Virano Gioielli, more than 100 years of craftsmanship.











