Williamsite Cabochon Rare One of a Kind Handmade online Lisajoy Sachs Design Desiger Maryland USA Jade Antigorite Gem Serpentine Chromium Specimen

online Williamsite is a very rare translucent to semi-transparent variety of serpentine. It is valued for its translucency and its jade-like color. Williamsite is typically included with black chromite or magnetite inclusions. The emerald green color derives from traces of chromium.

Weight - 30.280 Carats
Size - 30mm x 25mm x 4mm
Origin Maryland - USA
Hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale
refractive index of 1.53 to 1.575
specific gravity of 2.51 to 2.63
inclusions - yes
Handmade - Lisajoy Sachs
Polished on Backside

Williamsite was named in honor of 19th century American mineral collector L.W. Williams (1804-1873), who first discovered it. Williamsite exhibits an oily luster when polished and often contains minor inclusions of chromite and magnetite.

Williamsite belongs to the serpentine group of minerals, which has 3 subgroups or polymorphs that vary in crystal structure: antigorite, chrysotile and lizardite. Williamsite is an antigorite serpentine.

Most serpentine is massive and opaque and is mainly used for carving or cabochons. Williamsite is the rare gemmy exception and is noted for its unusual translucency and, occasionally, transparency. It is sometimes known as precious serpentine due to its resemblance to emerald-green jade. Another translucent antigorite, Bowenite, is more of an apple-green.

The value of natural Williamsite varies depending on size, quality and color.