This content was first published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review no. 4 in 2018. The information provided here is therefore current as of the original publication date.
Datolite is a calcium borosilicate, well known among mineral collectors, though not as much famous on the gemmological market. However, some yellow, green or colourless clear crystals can be found suitable for cutting. The best gem quality items can be found in Russia, but wonderful stones, though characterised by fewer carats, can be cut from raw items extracted in Italy.
Datolite is a common species in Italy and can be found in various locations: in alpine cracks, in Apennine ophiolites, in Tiso geodes, in Baveno granite and in the volcanic ejacta of Pitigliano in Tuscany. The most beautiful and rich samples can be found in the ophiolites in the Emilian Apennines in white crystals which are often clear and suitable for cutting. Usually small size stones are obtained (Figure 42) with little charm. The locations are Serra dei Zanchetti, in the province of Bologna, Rossena in the province of Modena and Ciano d’Enza in the province of Reggio Emilia.
Picture by Mauro Pantò, courtesy of the site www.thebeautyintherocks.com
Also on the Alps of Siusi colourless and pale green crystals were found evidencing a good quality, suitable for cutting (Figure 43). In Baveno yellow crystals are rarely found.
Picture by Fernando Metelli, courtesy by http://www.cfm-minerals.it.
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Curated by the qualified group of expert of the section Gems of Italy, published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review #4, Summer 2018.
