The truth about Euclase | A blue miraculous rare stone with the name “easily broken”
The truth about Euclase | A blue miraculous rare stone with the name “easily broken”
SELBY / Company information
Komehei Group's only jewelry specialty company
We carry out on-site inspections by production area and direct imports in-house. We will honestly disclose and deliver information on the condition and processing of rare stones.
SUPERVISOR / Supervision
Takazo Saito
Selby EC/SNS/Ruth/Production Department Manager
What is Euclase? A jewel that combines beauty and ephemerality
Euclasereminds me of iceTransparent blue to light blue gradationIt is a beautiful and extremely rare beryllium silicate mineral. Although it belongs to the beryllium family like aquamarine and emerald, it has a unique crystal structure."Complete cleavage"It is known as a unique entity in the jewelry world with this fate.
RARE GEM FILE
There are only a few loose pieces in the world that are of a quality that can be cut into facets each year."One of the most feared gemstones for cutters"There is also.
chemical composition
BeAlSiO₄(OH)
group
beryllium silicate
color
Colorless ~ Freshwater color ~ Dark blue
hardness
Morse 7.5
cleavage
Perfect in one direction
Main production area
Brazil, Zimbabwe, Colombia
Greek name meaning "easily broken"
The name Euclase isGreek “eu” (easily) + “klasis” (break)It originates from The name itself speaks not only of its beauty as a gemstone, but also of the difficulties faced during polishing and processing. Named by French mineralogist René-Just Haüy in 1785, it has fascinated polishers, craftsmen, and collectors for over 240 years.
Gradation from ice-clear light blue to deep blue
The colors of Euclase areWide range from colorless to freshwater color to deep blue, but the most valued is"Ice Blue ~ Turquoise Blue"A neutral color called. The color is created by trace elements, mainly iron (Fe), and the cold light that shines through from within is truly"Frozen water"It's reminiscent of. In particular, bicolor crystals (individuals where the boundary between blue and colorless is visible within the crystal) are coveted by collectors.
Beryllium mineral, same as emerald and aquamarine
Euclase isemerald aquamarine morganiteIt belongs to the same family of beryllium silicate minerals. Although they belong to the same family, they have different crystal structures (monoclinic), so they have unique characteristics in terms of appearance, color, hardness, and cleavage. If emerald is "green beryllium" and aquamarine is "light blue beryllium", thenEuclase is "a delicate ice-colored beryllium"It is an existence that can be described as.
FIG.01 / FAMILY
Euclase in the beryllium silicate mineral family
Figure 1: Euclase is a unique member of the beryllium silicate family with a unique monoclinic system.
Paradoxical properties: high Mohs hardness and perfect cleavage
What is essential when talking about Euclase is"Hardness 7.5" and "perfect cleavage"Two contradictory characteristics. This contradiction is what makes Euclase a "miracle jewel."
STRENGTH
Mohs hardness 7.5
Harder than quartz (7.0) and equivalent to tourmaline (7-7.5). It is hard enough to protect from general scratches and is within the practical range for jewelry.
WEAKNESS
complete cleavage
It has a crystal face that can be cracked in one direction. A fatal weak point where the stone instantly splits into two when shock or pressure is applied to the cleavage plane.
Surprising facts about Mohs hardness of 7.5 (harder than crystal)
Many people have the image that ``Euclease'' is a fragile stone, butSurface hardness exceeds crystal. It has sufficient resistance to daily abrasions and contact scratches, and is hard enough to be scratched by minerals other than diamond and corundum during storage.
The horror of “complete cleavage” that splits in one direction
However, Euclase's true weakness is"Perfect cleavage". Cleavage, which is described as "perfect" in mineralogy, refers to the property of cracking in a way that it peels off thinly along the crystal planes.How to crack a thin sheet like a knifeEven with the slightest shock or pressure, if a force is applied in a direction perpendicular to the cleavage plane, it will instantly split into two.
FIG.02 / PARADOX
Relationship between hardness and cleavage
Figure 2: Hardness = resistance to scratches, cleavage = weakness to impact. The two are different concepts, and each gemstone has its own characteristics.
Why faceted loose is called a miracle
rough euclaseFacet cut (multi-sided polishing)To do this, it is necessary to set the angle to completely avoid the cleavage plane. If the slight vibration of the polishing machine is transmitted to the cleavage plane even once, the crystal will instantly shatter.There are very few craftsmen in the world who can cut Euclase., the yield can be considered successful if one loose stone is completed from several rough stones. This is what “Faceted Euclase is a miracleThat's why it's called.
"Euclase is one of the most challenging gemstones to facet. A single moment of inattention can split the crystal along its perfect cleavage plane, ending hours of careful work."
(Euclace is one of the most difficult gemstones to cut; a moment of carelessness can split the crystal along a perfect cleavage plane, undoing hours of careful work.) ― From a discussion by an industry expert rapidist
Major Euclase production areas in the world
Euclase varies greatly in color, size, and characteristics depending on the region of production.
Brazil (Ouro Preto etc.)
BrazilAround Ouro Preto in Minas Geraisis the world's most famous Euclase region. Formed in strata containing beryllium and aluminum,Transparent light to medium density blue crystalsproduces. Historically, the majority of gem-quality Euclase has come from Brazil, and it has become the mainstream of the collector market.
Other production areas such as Zimbabwe and Colombia
of zimbabweMiura Block, of ColombiaAround GatcharaIt has been confirmed that it is produced in Russia, Austria, Norway, etc., but gemstone crystals are rare in all of them. Each geological environment has its own unique color and inclusion tendencies.
Differences in color and inclusions depending on production area
| Production area | typical color | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil (Ouro Preto) | Light to medium blue, colorless | Historical main production area. Distribution volume is relatively large |
| zimbabwe | Bright blue ~ bicolor | High-quality production area that has been attracting attention in recent years |
| columbia | Colorless to light blue | Produced from the same geological formation as emeralds |
| Russia/Austria | Pale blue to colorless | Mainly specimens, rare gem quality |
Popularity of bicolor from Zimbabwe
In recent years, the reputation in the collector market has been particularly high.Bicolor Euclase from Zimbabwe. in one crystalThe border between dark blue and colorless is clearly visible.This specimen is a new star in the modern jewelry collecting world, with a unique beauty rarely seen in Brazil. Prices also tend to be higher than those produced in Brazil.
👤 SUPERVISOR'S STORY
The head of the production department talks about “stones that make craftsmen cry”
Supervisor Saito, as the person in charge of the jewelry production department, supervises the craftsmen."Battle with Euclase"I've seen it from the front lines. from local dealer"Lethal Weapon"At the stage of purchasing rough stones, heCarefully determine the direction of the cleavage plane。
Once a craftsman breaks a piece of euclase while cutting it, the psychological shock is immeasurable - which is why the discerning eye at the rough stone procurement stage is a decisive factor in determining the quality of the finished stone.
🔥 LETHAL WEAPON
Once a craftsman breaks a piece of euclase while cutting it, the psychological shock is immeasurable - which is why the discerning eye at the rough stone procurement stage is a decisive factor in determining the quality of the finished stone.
Value of Euclase and points to consider when choosing it
1
The beauty of color depth and bicolor (color band)
The highest rating is"Vivid aqua blue ~ dark blue". A light blue that is too pale will be mistaken for aquamarine and the rarity premium will drop. Bicolor individualsSharp boundaries and clear color contrastThe thing is the highest peak. The two-color separation of blue and colorless that can be seen in Zimbabwean pieces is highly valued in the collector market.
2
Accuracy and symmetry of cuts that overcome cleavage
Euclase is for cleavageFreedom of cutting is limitedThat is the reality. Even so, specimens with good symmetry, sharp facets, and a small window (center hole) are truly rare.Cushion oval step cuttends to be selected with good yield.
3
Determining clarity and fine cracks
Due to pegmatite originMicroscopic inclusions and fluid inclusionsexists normally. The important thing is that"Are there any large cracks or chips that are noticeable to the naked eye?". In particular, internal cracks along the cleavage plane pose a risk of damage upon impact, so we recommend checking with a 10x magnifying glass when purchasing.
Jewelry suitability: Is it possible to wear it?
Rings not recommended, suggestions for pendants and brooches
Although Euclase has a hardness of 7.5,Due to complete cleavage, direct setting to ring metal is strongly discouraged.. There is a risk that the contact and impact that occurs every time you move your hand can cause instant cleavage damage.pendants, brooches, earringsIt is realistic to limit yourself to jewelry that is placed so that it is not susceptible to shocks.
| Jewelry type | aptitude | reason |
|---|---|---|
| pendant necklace | ★★★★★ | The royal road that is less susceptible to shock and shows off its miraculous blue color. |
| brooch | ★★★★☆ | Fixed type and highly safe |
| Earrings (lightweight) | ★★★☆☆ | Light weight, but there is a risk of falling |
| Ring (for everyday use) | ★☆☆☆☆ | Not recommended. High risk of cleavage damage |
| Ring (only for special occasions) | ★★☆☆☆ | Can be considered if it is covered ring fastener |
| Loose ornamental | ★★★★★ | It is the safest and allows you to enjoy the original charm. |
Risks faced by craftsmen when setting stones
The work of fixing Euclase to bullion isThe most delicate process for jewelersOne of the. If a slight pressure is transmitted to the cleavage plane when bending the nail, an accident will occur where the stone will crack on the spot. Experienced craftsmenBezel and loose clawsSelect and carefully proceed with the final stone setting process. Selby's in-house production department is staffed by craftsmen who understand the characteristics of rare stones.
Absolute precautions when handling
・ Do not fall: If dropped on a hard surface, it will cleave and break instantly.
・ Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners cannot be used.: Vibration is transmitted to the internal crack, causing damage.
・ Avoid sudden temperature changes: Possibility of cracking due to thermal shock
・ When grasping with tweezers, use ones with soft tips.
・ Store separately in individual pocket of gem box. Be careful not to let other stones touch the cleavage plane.
・ Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners cannot be used.: Vibration is transmitted to the internal crack, causing damage.
・ Avoid sudden temperature changes: Possibility of cracking due to thermal shock
・ When grasping with tweezers, use ones with soft tips.
・ Store separately in individual pocket of gem box. Be careful not to let other stones touch the cleavage plane.
Admire it in a special case as a collector's item
Many collectors buy EuclaseFor ornamental use as a loose item without being processed into jewelry.will be held as. The display, housed in a special gem box or transparent acrylic case and illuminated by a light box, is a blissful moment where you can enjoy the blue gradation and ice-like clarity to your heart's content."Maintaining beauty in the safest way without running the risk of cracking"It's also a choice.
Absolute peace of mind when choosing Euclase in Selby
Honest condition description that does not hide chips or cracks
Euclase often has cleavage and fine cracks,Selling under the guise of “perfection” undermines long-term customer trust.thinks Selby. For all stones, we provide detailed condition descriptions, including inspection results with the naked eye and with a 10x magnifying glass, so that our customers can purchase with confidence.
Carefully selected procurement routes that are possible only as a specialized company
Selby is the only company in the Komehei Group that specializes in jewelry.Direct purchasing route at the production areaestablished. We assess the cleavage plane and internal condition at the rough stage, and only bring back to Japan only crystals of high gem quality. Transparent purchasing without intermediaries allows us to maintain reasonable prices.
Komehyo Group's Authenticity Determination and Purchase Guarantee
Komehyo Group has a track record of jewelry appraisal for over half a century since its establishment.Industry-leading purchasing networkhas. If you wish to sell a Euclase purchased in Selby in the future, we have a system in place that will allow us to provide you with a professional appraisal.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Euclase
Will it really break if I drop it?
It depends on the angle of fall and the hardness of the falling surface.There is a real possibility that it will break just by dropping it on a hard floor.. Impacts perpendicular to the cleavage plane are especially fatal. Handle loose items with tweezers or on a soft cloth, and be sure to store them in a gem box when transporting them.
How can you tell the difference between aquamarine and sapphire?
Although it may be difficult to distinguish by color alone,Can be clearly distinguished by refractive index (Euclace around 1.65 / Aquamarine around 1.57 / Sapphire around 1.76) and specific gravityIt is. In addition, since euclase is monoclinic and exhibits pleochroism, confirmation of birefringence and pleochroism are also decisive factors for identification. You can be sure by purchasing one that comes with a certificate of authenticity.
What is the value of colorless euclase?
Although colorless euclase tends to be rated lower than blue products,"Rarity as a mineral specimen"is equivalent to the blue product. It is also valued as an alternative gemstone that allows you to enjoy the refraction of light like a diamond, making it valuable for collection purposes. The price is about half to 1/3 of the blue product.
What should I be careful about when storing after purchasing?
Individual gem box, humidity 40-60%, temperature 15-25℃, avoid direct sunlight, is the basic principle. If it comes into contact with other hard stones (diamond, corundum, etc.), it may chip from the cleavage plane on the Euclase side. Be sure to use tweezers when checking regularly.
Has it been heat treated or impregnated?
Cases of intentional treatment of Euclase are extremely rare.It is. Since heat treatment is technically difficult due to the risk of damage at high temperatures, it is safe to assume that most products on the market are untreated. However, before purchasing, be sure to check with the store to see if the product has been processed.
What is the price range?
Although it is difficult to form a clear market price due to the small amount of circulation,A standard quality item around 0.5 ct costs 50,000 to 200,000 yen, a 1 ct class high quality item costs 300,000 to 800,000 yen, and a premium bicolor product from Zimbabwe costs 1 million yen to several million yen.area. They vary greatly depending on size, color, and origin.
Summary
Key points of this article
- Euclase is a beryllium silicate mineral derived from the Greek word "easily split".
- A blue to light blue gradation reminiscent of ice. Same family as emerald and aquamarine
- The contradiction of Mohs hardness of 7.5 (resistant to scratches) + complete cleavage (weak to impact)
- Main production areas: Brazil (mainstream), Zimbabwe (popular for bicolor), Colombia, etc.
- Facet cutting is an extremely difficult process that makes craftsmen cry = a miracle loose
- Rings not recommended; pendants, brooches, and loose ornaments are realistic.
- Selby offers peace of mind with its sales style that honestly discloses the condition.
Euclase combines beauty and fragility."Blue Miraculous Jewel". Although it is destined to be easily broken, the completed Ruth is a double miracle of earth and craftsmanship. As the only company specializing in jewelry in the Komehei Group, Selby provides an environment where customers can encounter these miracles with peace of mind by honestly disclosing the condition and importing items directly from the source. Please consider this once-in-a-lifetime rare stone at a trusted specialty store.
SUPERVISED BY
Takazo Saito
Selby EC/SNS/Ruth/Production Department Manager. He has direct purchasing experience in various production areas, including Brazil and Zimbabwe, and is a discerning expert known in the industry as ``Lethal Weapon.''