mineral

Fairy Stone (Staurolite)

Staurolite (Fe2+2Al9Si4O22(OH)2)

Hardness: 7 to 7.5; Color: Brownish-red to brownish-black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Distinct; Specific gravity: 3.7 to 3.8

Hardness: 7 to 7
Color: Brownish-red to brownish-black
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified May 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 to 7.5; Color: Brownish-red to brownish-black; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Distinct; Specific gravity: 3.7 to 3.8

Formation & geological history

Forms in medium-grade regional metamorphic rocks such as schists and gneisses, typically during the Paleozoic era under high pressure and temperature conditions.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a collector specimen and in jewelry (often tumbled or kept as natural crosses). Historically used as religious amulets or good luck charms.

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'stauros' for cross. Legend says they are the tears of fairies who wept upon hearing of the death of Christ, forming cross-shaped stones.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its characteristic 60-degree or 90-degree 'twinned' cross shape. Commonly found in Virginia (Fairy Stone State Park), Georgia, and the Swiss Alps.

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