Beads > Gemstone Beads > Magnesite

Magnesite or Magnesium Carbonate can range from transparent to opaque and is a highly porous, low luster stone which makes it a great candidate for enhancement and dying. It can be difficult to distinguish magnesite from both dolomite and serpentine, both are also very suitable stones for enhancement and often marketed as faux jade . Magnesite can be dyed into a broad spectrum of bold colors, and is often enhanced to resemble turquoise, it is sometimes known as lime turquoise, white turquoise, or marshmallow turquoise. Native American cultures have crafted magnesite into beads for both jewelry and currency for hundreds of years.