metamorphic
Epidote with Quartz
Epidote (Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH))
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pistachio-green to yellowish-green or blackish-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.3 - 3.5; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction.
- Hardness
- 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Pistachio-green to yellowish-green or blackish-green
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Pistachio-green to yellowish-green or blackish-green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.3 - 3.5; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction.
Formation & geological history
Formed in regional and contact metamorphic rocks, particularly of basaltic and calcareous origin. It specifically occurs in greenschist facies and as a product of hydrothermal alteration.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a minor secondary gemstone, in decorative carvings, and as a popular mineral specimen for collectors. In industry, it has no significant commercial application.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'epidosis' meaning 'addition,' referring to the base of the crystal which has one side longer than the other. Fine crystals are highly sought by mineralogists for their complex faces.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct 'pistachio-green' color and high hardness. It is often found associated with quartz, chlorite, and feldspar in metamorphic terrains globally.
More like this
