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Orthoclase as a mineral is a very common feldspar, but when described as a gemstone it usually refers to a rare transparent yellowish form of the mineral Orthoclase. It can have a very pleasant yellow color, sometimes with some hints of brown in it. A purer yellow color is more desirable, although champagne colored stones are also popular.
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The color of Orthoclase gemstones is natural and is not enhanced by
heat treatment. Occasionally the colorless, transparent forms from Switzerland are also cut as gemstones, but in general Orthoclase gemstones are yellow. Some Orthoclase gems display a cat's eye effect when cut into cabochon. Orthoclase may be fluorescent with a weak orange
or bluish color.
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Orthoclase is a rare gemstone and is faceted into gemstone cuts for jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and pins.
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Orthoclase gemstones are not treated or enhanced.
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Mostly from Madagascar, but also from Myanmar (Burma), Tanzania, and Brazil. The Madagascar locality provides the stones of the deepest color.
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Citrine, Heliodor, and Topaz are all softer.
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Have a question about Orthoclase? Visit our Q&A Community and ask the experts!
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