In this article, you will learn how to identify, use, and understand Hickoryite.
We begin by explaining what the stone is and where it is from.
We then go on to explain Hickoryite identification and how it differs from other similar stones.
Finally, we conclude with meanings attributed to the stone and tips for caring for it.
What Is Hickoryite?
Hickoryite is a specific type of rhyolite.
The stone is mostly made up of colors of tan and brown, but it can also have reddish-brown, pink, or yellow tones and banding.
Today, the stone is a favorite type of bead to wear.
The term “Hickoryite” is simply the commercial name for this sort of rock.
The most common type of Hickoryite is Autumn or Rainbow Hickoryite, with both names referring to the same variety.
This is the stone that has tan and brown coloration with reddish or pink banding.
In order to understand Hickoryite, you have to understand rhyolite.
Rhyolite is an extrusive rock that has fine-grained crystals.
The crystals can include quartz, feldspar, and mica, making the stone similar to granite.
One way that Hickoryite is different from other rhyolite varieties is that it isn’t as hard.
Rhyolite is known for having a hardness rating of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
In comparison, Hickoryite only has a rating of 3.5.
As a result, Hickoryite is one of the softer varieties of rhyolite. It has a refractive index of 1.486 to 1.658.
Where Hickoryite Is Found
Hickoryite can be found in many locations, but they are primarily found near Rodeo, Mexico, which is in the state of Durango.
Here, the largest deposits of Hickoryite can be found.
How To Identify Hickoryite
Identifying Hickoryite is not very difficult. It has a unique appearance, and this name is not widely known.
Instead, sellers who provide Hickoryite almost always correctly identify the stone since this name is a commercial one specifically.
The easiest way to identify Hickoryite is by looking at the color, but you can consider the hardness and refraction as well.
Color
The number one way to identify Hickoryite is to look at its coloration.
These stones are primarily tan or light brown.
However, this brown base can have speckles, bands, or other discolorations.
The discoloration can be brown, reddish-brown, pink, and even yellow.
Hardness
The hardness is another way that you can identify this stone.
Once again, Hickoryite has a hardness of 3.5.
This hardness rating will make it very easy to distinguish Hickoryite from other types of rhyolite since rhyolite is almost twice as hard.
Refraction
The last way to identify Hickoryite is to check out the refraction.
The refraction of this stone ranges anywhere from 1.486 to 1.658.
Of course, you will need special equipment in order to measure the refraction of the stone.
This makes the refraction index the most difficult way to identify the stone.
Stones Commonly Mistaken For Hickoryite
Because Hickoryite has tan or brown colorations, it can be mistaken for other stones.
Especially if you are looking at a tumbled or marbled stone, it can be difficult to properly identify the stone type.
It is much easier to identify Hickoryite if it is flat and you can see the bands properly, but this isn’t always the case.
Venus Jasper
Venus Jasper is one of the easiest stones to confuse with Hickoryite.
It has brown and tan base colors with other colorations of pink, blue, brown, and yellow.
It is even a type of rhyolite, further making it easy to confuse the two stones.
Unfortunately, it can be impossible to distinguish the two stones based on appearance alone.
The coloration and banding are so similar that the two stones might not be properly identified.
The main difference in appearance is that Venus Jasper has swirls of colors, whereas Hickoryite has bands.
The best way to identify Venus Jasper is to check its hardness.
This stone has a hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, which is nearly twice as hard as Hickoryite.
Shiva Lingam
Shiva Lingam can also be confused with Hickoryite.
It has earthy tones, including brown, tan, and gray.
Luckily, it’s a lot easier to distinguish this stone from Hickoryite and Venus Jasper.
Hickoryite is much lighter than Shiva Lingam.
It has a primarily light brown or tan base with darker color bands.
In contrast, Shiva Lingam is primarily dark with light bands.
Also, Shiva Lingam is almost always sold in an oval shape, whereas Hickoryite can be sold in many shapes.
Brown Aragonite
The last stone that looks similar to Hickoryite is Brown Aragonite.
It has brown colors.
However, it is pretty easy to distinguish this stone from Hickoryite if you know what to look for.
This stone looks almost identical to wood.
If the stone has a wood-like grain appearance, it is likely Brown Aragonite.
Hickoryite Meaning
According to some beliefs, Hickoryite helps to foster imaginative thinking, adventure, and originality.
It is a favorite among individuals who believe they need inspiration and innovative thinking.
Often, it is used by individuals with earth signs.
How To Care For Hickoryite
Because this stone is soft, it can be difficult to care for. It’s best to clean it with a soft but dry cloth.
If you must wash it, only wash it with warm water and mild soap.
Make sure to dry the stone thoroughly after you get it wet.
It’s best to avoid using any harsh cleaning products or harsh bristles and brushes.
This can damage the delicate surface and render your Hickoryite ruined.
Because this stone is frequently used for creativity, it’s a great idea to wear it and use it as an accessory.
It is great for autumn or fall outfits, but it can be used in boho or southwestern styles year-round.
Conclusion
Hickoryite is a beautiful stone associated with creativity and innovation.
Because of its meanings and unique appearance, the stone is a favorite among fashion designers and fashionistas that want fall, boho, or desert-themed outfits.
You will need to care for the stone carefully since it is much softer than other rhyolite varieties.
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