[Jewelry making - Article 00055] - Re: [Orchid] White Turquoise

[MillsGem]

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All,

    Magnesite ( magnesium carbonate) is a realtively common mineral
    which has many of the physical attributes of Turquoise except that
    it is never green or blue in nature. It has a hardness of four, but
    can sometimes be much harder through intimate association with
    chalcedony. There are a number of locations in California where this
    latter association is common. Many of these locales produce a
    beautiful dark green chrysoprase with cauliflower like bunches of
    magnesite....the net effect is unique and quite beautiful. In
    Australia there is also an occurence of this type which is even more
    beautiful inasmuch as the snow white magnesite is surrounded by a
    light bright green chrysoprase. In either locale it seems that the
    magnesite has become indurated by the silica solutions and the
    result is a stone which has both hardness and toughness.......the
    magnesite does not undercut when polishing ! 

    Magnesite pebbles with black veining can also be used for display
    purposes. I have several pounds of tumble polished magnesite which I
    sometimes use as a background in displaying jewelry. It is very
    effective.

    Ron Mills, Mills Gem Co. Los Osos, Ca. 

    P.S You may be walking on magnesite without knowing it.....it is a
    favorite for deck and balcony floors. In this form it is ground up
    like cement and mixed with water.

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