A to Z of Gemstones - D is for Danburite

One of the lesser known gemstone, and truth to tell one I had never previously heard of is Danburite. Danburite, a calcium boric silicate was first discovered in 1839 in Danbury, Connecticut. Danburite was discovered by Charles Shepherd, an eminent American mineralogist. 

Danburite, a quite hard stone, is usually colourless to very light pink in colour, but some deposits may produce specimens in shades of light yellow or brown. Danburite is known for its excellent transparency and clarity. Because of its high refractive index, well cut danburites are remarkably bright and can look something like diamonds.

The original discovered deposits of Danburite have long since been buried under an expanding city. Today Danburite deposits are found in Japan, Madagascar, Mexico and Burma, with Mexico considered the most important source of gemstone quality Danburite.

Here are a few examples I have found of some Danburite jewelry on Etsy:

Crowning Glory by Gypsy Rose Creations

Amethyst and Danburite Wire Wrapped Pendant by Brando SCI

Wire Wrapped Danburite by Lunar Earth Dot Com