![Arfvedsonite (Arfvedsonite [Na3(Fe2+,Mg)4Fe3+Si8O22(OH)2]) — mineral](https://media.rock.id/arfvedsonite-f9281ff3-f17e-4b5a-8eb5-51755247f5c2-compressed.jpg)
mineral
Arfvedsonite
Arfvedsonite [Na3(Fe2+,Mg)4Fe3+Si8O22(OH)2]
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Black with blue or green iridescent flashes; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.5
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black with blue or green iridescent flashes
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Black with blue or green iridescent flashes; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.5
Formation & geological history
Found primarily in rare alkaline igneous rocks like agpaitic nepheline syenites and granitic pegmatites. It forms during the late stages of magma crystallization.
Uses & applications
Mainly sold as a decorative mineral or pocket stone for collectors; often used by practitioners of crystal healing for its supposed metaphysical properties.
Geological facts
Arfvedsonite was named after the Swedish chemist Johan August Arfwedson, who discovered the element Lithium. It is often confused with Nuummite due to the similar blue-tinged flashes.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its dark, almost black body color and the characteristic blade-like flashes of blue/silver seen when rotated under light. Common locations include Greenland, Canada, and Russia.
