Diaspore: Colour and light Posted August 03, 2021 | By Mikaelah Egan Diaspore derives its name from the Greek word diaspora – meaning ‘to scatter’. The prized colour-change varieties may be better known as Csarite or, formerly, Zultanite.
Gem-quality diaspore is best known for its colour change, an optical effect that occurs when different types of lighting interact with the gemstone.
In daylight, this stone is usually a greenish colour, that changes to a pinkish brown or even red in incandescent light. Trace elements of titanium, vanadium, iron and chromium within the structure are responsible for this effect.
It is this variety of diaspore, which many may know by the name of Zultanite, that consumers encounter on cruise ships and other tourist markets around the world. This material is not readily available as the market is controlled by two producers.