metamorphic
Blue Dyed Quartzite
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with artificial pigment
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Teal-blue with darker blue dye concentrations in fractures; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Fine-grained, sugary (saccharoidal) under the surface; Structure: Non-foliated.
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Teal-blue with darker blue dye concentrations in fractures
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More metamorphic →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs); Color: Teal-blue with darker blue dye concentrations in fractures; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Texture: Fine-grained, sugary (saccharoidal) under the surface; Structure: Non-foliated.
Formation & geological history
Originally formed as sandstone, then metamorphosed into quartzite through heat and pressure. The blue color is an anthropogenic enhancement where dye is forced into fractures and pore spaces of the tumbled stone.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as decorative stones, pocket stones, aquarium gravel, and in inexpensive wire-wrapped jewelry or meditation kits.
Geological facts
While quartzite is naturally found in white, gray, or pink, this vibrant blue shade is non-natural. The dye often concentrates in the 'crackle' patterns or natural fractures, which is a tell-tale sign of treatment.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by checking 'fracture staining' where color is darker in cracks. Natural blue minerals like sodalite or lapis won't show this specific veining pattern. Commonly found in gift shops globally.
