Wavellite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Wavellite Crystals and Gem Cutting

Since wavellite's radiating crystal clusters can splinter, they make it a very difficult gem to cut. The individual crystals in the clusters are very small. Gem cutters can fashion cabochons as well as freeform shapes from this material. However, any faceted gems would be a tremendous rarity.

Synthetics

No known synthetics or enhancements.

Where are Wavellites Found?

Hot Springs, Arkansas produces wavellites in fine, spherical and radial groups of acicular crystals.

The type locality, High Down Quarry, Devon, England, also produces excellent specimens.

Other gem-quality sources include the following:

• United States: Alabama; California; Colorado; Florida; Chester County, Pennsylvania.
• Tasmania, Australia; Bolivia; Bulgaria; Czech Republic; France; Germany; Ireland; Portugal; Romania; Slovakia.

Stone Sizes

Lapidaries can cut cabochons up to several inches in length from Arkansas material. No faceted gems have been reported, yet.

Caring for Wavellite Jewelry

Wavellite has a relatively low hardness (3.5 to 4) and perfect cleavage, so gems for jewelry pieces such as rings need protective settings. Pendants and earrings would make excellent choices for this material. However, you're more likely to encounter these stones in gem collections than jewelry collections.

Store these gems separately from other harder stones to avoid contact scratches. For cleaning, use a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water. Consult our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide for more recommendations.