3.73 Ct. Sphene (Titanite) from Madagascar

This cushion-shaped sphene from Madagascar presents a combination of measured proportions and technical execution that will appeal to a discerning collector, it weighs 3.73 carats and measures 11.58 by 7.55 by 4.82 millimeters, it is cut in a classic cushion outline with a mixed brilliant facet schema, its table and crown have brilliant-style facet arrangements while the pavilion exhibits a mix of full and step elements to maximize both dispersion and depth, the cutter preserved generous pavilion depth to maintain internal light return and to capitalize on sphene’s strong birefringence and high dispersion, the result is a gem that reads larger than its weight suggests in face-up area, the clarity is graded as very slightly included at eye level, indicating only minor internal features that do not interrupt the primary light path, the polish is excellent, and there has been no enhancement, the piece is supplied with certification that identifies the material as titanite, commonly known as sphene, and documents its greenish yellow to greenish brown tone and Madagascar origin.

Optical character and facet execution are the defining technical strengths of this stone, the intense color intensity reported is evident in the balance between yellow-green core tones and warmer greenish brown accents near the girdle and pavilion lines, sphene’s strong pleochroism is managed through the mixed cut, the cutter oriented the pavilion and crown to present the most desirable optic face and to synchronize pleochroic shifts with the stone’s table for predictably dynamic color flashes when the piece moves, the mixed brilliant treatment on the crown creates numerous small facets that act as multiple windows for dispersion, while the pavilion’s complemented steps produce contrast, these design choices enhance color separation and fire without sacrificing overall face-up saturation, the very slightly included clarity grade allows for minimal natural character without interfering with brilliance, under loupe inspection the inclusions are confined and often act as light-scattering points that accentuate scintillation rather than degrade it.

When set in jewelry this sphene’s vibrant greenish yellow color will stand out in any mounting due to both its chromatic intensity and optical complexity, for designs that emphasize warmth and continuity of tone, 18 karat yellow or rose gold settings will absorb and reflect the warmer components of the stone’s palette, producing a glowing, honeyed presence that reads vividly in candlelight and daylight, conversely, a white metal setting such as platinum or white gold will emphasize the cooler greenish flashes and provide a modern, high-contrast frame for the gem’s internal play, the cushion outline with its softened corners is ideally suited to halo and bezel variants, a well-proportioned bezel will protect the girdle and corners and is recommended because sphene has a Mohs hardness that warrants protective mountings, prong settings that secure the stone at its strongest girdle planes will allow maximum light entry and highlight the mixed brilliant crown, orientation in the final setting can be tuned so that pleochroic axes align with the intended field of view, making the piece actively change color when worn rather than relying on static tone alone.

The provenance and hand finishing are equally relevant to the technical buyer, Madagascar remains one of the most important sources for fine titanite and this example demonstrates regional material qualities, the lack of enhancements confirms natural color and optical behavior, the cutter’s decision to employ a mixed brilliant design reflects an understanding of sphene’s refractive properties and the need to balance fire with color saturation, given the stone’s clarity evaluation and excellent polish, it is suitable for a centerpiece in bespoke work, however due to titanite’s relative softness and cleavage tendencies we recommend protective settings and avoidance of everyday impact, cleaning should be performed with mild warm soapy water and a soft brush, ultrasonic and steam cleaning are not recommended without prior consultation, The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the gem’s specifications and will furnish the supporting certificate on request, for a collector or designer seeking a single stone that combines vivid chromatic presence, technical cutting sophistication, and secure, well-documented origin, this 3.73 carat greenish yellow cushion sphene will deliver a striking and highly characterful focal point in any jewelry setting.