Gemstone Transparency

Determining whether your gemstone is transparent, translucent or opaque will help you catalogue your gemstones.

By Christopher Clark, GG, FGA, ASG, Gemologist & Co-Editor of The Sisk Gemology Reference | JTV
Published: 02/01/2020
Modified: 06/01/2021
gemstone-transparency diaphaneity transparent-gemstone translucent-gemstone opaque-gemstone
Gemstone Transparency

Gemstone transparency, also known as diaphaneity, simply means the ability or level of a mineral or gemstone to transmit light. Transparency, or lack there of, is dependent upon how much light gets through the gem. When light hits the gem's surface, varying amounts of light will be reflected, absorbed or transmitted. Transparency is not only affected by the gem's chemical composition and crystal structure, but also by the gem's body color, depth, presence/absence of inclusions and surface condition.


    When you are cataloguing the properties of your gemstone by observation alone, it is important to first understand the definition of diaphaneity and whether your gem is transparent, translucent or opaque.

What Factors affect Gemstone Transparency?

The following four factors affect the transparency of a gemstone:

  • The structure of the stone
  • Color: Deeply colored stones will pass less light than lightly colored ones
  • Thickness: Thicker stones will allow lesser transmission than thinner stones
  • The presence or absence of imperfections and inclusions
Transparency in Gemstones (source: Gemstones.com YouTube)

What are Transparent Gemstones?

A transparent gemstone or mineral not only transmits light, but objects or images may be seen clearly through the material. An object viewed through a transparent stone appears with sharp, clear and distinct outlines.

oval shaped clear transparent gemstone
Transparent Gemstone

What are some examples of transparent gemstones and minerals?

Typical examples of transparent or clear gems are:

What are Translucent Gemstones?

A translucent gem or mineral can transmit light, but objects will not be visible through it.

oval shaped translucent gemstone
Translucent Gemstone

What are some examples of translucent gemstones and minerals?

Typical examples of translucent gems are:

What are Opaque Gemstones?

oval shaped opaque gemstone
Opaque Gemstone

What are some examples of opaque gemstones and minerals?

Typical examples of opaque gems are:

Optical properties, such as transparency, provide a non-damaging means for identifying a gemstone and are also responsible for all the features someone immediately notices and appreciates. As you collect and identify gems in your collection, make sure to take the time and effort to look at your gemstones closely for these factors that tell you more about the gemstone's story and unique characteristics.

Christopher Clark

About the author

Christopher Clark

A Graduate Gemologist and Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain, Christopher has spent the last 4 years co-editing The Sisk Gemology Reference. He also acts as a customer advocate by inspecting and testing gemstones as they come into Jewelry Television to ensure they are exactly what our customers expect. He is an avid collector of vintage jewelry, gemstones, mineral specimens and spheres. Employed at Jewelry Television since 2006, Christopher spends much of his time immersed in the fascinating world of jewelry and gemstones.

Christopher’s passion for collecting valuables and precious stones began when he was shopping at a retired jeweler’s garage sale and he purchased a parcel of colored gemstones and a “lump of metal” that turned out to be GOLD! From that moment forward, the treasure hunt was on! But occasionally, he does become a commodities trader as he keeps an ever-watchful eye on precious metal prices. Unfortunately for his wallet, though, most of the treasures he acquires are never resold as they simply get added to his ever-growing collections. Christopher especially enjoys collecting vintage pocket watches and Mexican antique silver jewelry.

Christopher is now an Accredited Senior Gemologist with the Accredited Gemologists Association. He volunteers his time with a local gemological society for identifying gemstones. Christopher is always excited to attend major gemstone trade shows and is always on the look-out for the next great gem to bring JTV customers. Working closely with our vendors, Christopher has built a business rapport with them that allows for an easy trust and mutually beneficial working relationship. His favorite gem? Without a doubt, OPAL!