Updated as of June 2026
Sphene
A brilliant fiery gem with dispersion greater than diamond, associated in tradition with mental clarity and vitality.
Price range$20 to $300/ct
Hardness (Mohs)5.25
ColorsGreen, Yellow, Orange, Brown
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
6.4/10
Sphene pros and cons
Pros
- Exceptional brilliance and sparkle
- Strong value for the look
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 5.25, best in protected settings
- Quality varies widely, so compare before buying
Sphene is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Sphene
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestSphene jewelry
Sphene by cut
Sphene by metal
Sphene in yellow goldSphene in white goldSphene in rose goldSphene in platinumSphene in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 5.25) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Soft and brittle. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, heat, and knocks.
You may also like
Where to buy Sphene: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sphene?
A brilliant fiery gem with dispersion greater than diamond, associated in tradition with mental clarity and vitality. It rates 5.25 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in green, yellow, orange, brown.
How much does Sphene cost?
Sphene typically runs about $20 to $300 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Sphene price guide for detail.
Is Sphene good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 5.25 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Sphene?
Sphene earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.4 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Sphene?
Soft and brittle. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, heat, and knocks.