Titanite, also referred to as sphene, is known for its strong fire (its dispersion is higher than that of diamond) and rich colors, bill it is seldom used in jewellery as it is too brink- and soft. Nevertheless, transparent yellow, green, or brown gem-quality material is cut for collectors. Titanite is strongly pleochroic (showing three different colors), and has high birefringence (seen as doubling of the back facets) and adamantine luster.

Gem-quality titanite occurs in cavities in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss and schist, and also in granite. Mama localities are Austria, Canada, Switzerland, Madagascar, Mexico, and Brazil.

Several ideas have been put forward to explain the mysterious origin of tektites. One theory is that they came to Earth from outer space, melting as they passed through the atmosphere and thus forming their characteristic shape and surface texture. A second theory is that the impact of a large meteorite caused the surrounding rocks to melt and scatter, with cracks and scars then appearing as they cooled.