Quick Answer: The Prism Calcite/Quartz is a doubly refracting prism in natural calcite (Iceland spar) or alpha-quartz, cut relative to the crystal c-axis. Prisms are 20 mm to 38 mm on the edge, depending on model.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Natural calcite (Iceland spar) or alpha-quartz
Cut relative to the c-axis
Edge length 20 mm to 38 mm, model dependent
Pitch-polished faces
Shows double refraction and optical activity
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Material
Calcite (natural crystal) / alpha-quartz
Edge length
20mm to 38mm (model dependent)
Optical axis
Cut relative to c-axis
Refractive index, calcite
Ordinary about 1.658; extraordinary about 1.486
Refractive index, quartz
Ordinary about 1.544; extraordinary about 1.553
Surface
Pitch polished
HS Code
9001.90 (Lenses, Prisms, Mirrors, and Other Optical Elements)
About This Product
A calcite prism splits a beam into ordinary and extraordinary rays, so a dot seen through it appears twice, while quartz shows optical activity. Physics students use the prisms to study birefringence and to relate the effect to Huygens’ principle in crystals. The Prism Calcite/Quartz can be supplied on export terms to Togo, Tunisia, Costa Rica, Lesotho and Senegal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the refractive indices of the Prism Calcite/Quartz?
Calcite: about 1.658 (ordinary) and 1.486 (extraordinary). Quartz: about 1.544 (ordinary) and 1.553 (extraordinary).
.png)
