Gemstone Glossary

Danburite

First discovered in Danbury, Connecticut, in 1839, and named after that location, Danburite is relatively new on the market but rapidly growing in popularity. An excellent Diamond alternative, Danburite has similarities with White Topaz and is in the same price bracket.

Danburites are rare crystals of Calcium Boron Silicate (CaB2Si2O8) the best of which are usually found in Mexico. Although most Danburites are grayish and opaque, some are clear and colorless, or a very light pink, with striated sides and chisel-like terminations. These are the ones that make the most attractive gem quality stones.


With a hardness of 7, they wear well and are quite beautiful when faceted and set in jewelry. Visually, Danburites make an excellent natural gemstone alternative to Diamonds, and energetically, they harmonize with almost everything.

Metaphysically, Danburite is a powerful intellectual activator and an excellent healing tool. It is believed that Danburite aids with communication and relationships with others, and helps to remove toxins from the body. The corresponding Astrological Sign for Danburite is Leo.

Danburite is found in the following locations: Myanmar (Burma), Japan, Malagasy Republic, Mexico, Switzerland, Germany, and Danbury, Connecticut (USA), although the original deposits in Danbury, Connecticut are now somewhat inaccessible as they lie under a major metropolitan area.

Fine quality Danburites are clear or white, but shades of yellow, pink and brown can also be found. Clarity should be transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster. Most jewelers will not know about this rare and interesting gemstone so be prepared to shop around.