mineral

Blue Kyanite

Kyanite (Al2SiO5)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4.5 to 5.0 (perpendicular to length) and 6.5 to 7.0 (parallel to length). Color: Blue, white, gray. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Cleavage: Perfect in one direction.

Hardness: 4
Color: Blue, white, gray
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed during regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks (pelites) under high pressure. Commonly found in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss.

Uses & applications

Industrial uses include high-resistance ceramics (spark plugs), refractory products, and abrasives. Also used in jewelry as cabochons and for metaphysical purposes.

Geological facts

Kyanite is an aluminosilicate polymorph, sharing the same chemistry as Andalusite and Sillimanite but forming under different temperature-pressure conditions. It is one of the few minerals that has a significantly varying hardness depending on the direction of the scratch.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its bladed crystal habit, distinct blue color, and anisotropic hardness. Common locations include Brazil, USA (North Carolina), Switzerland, and Nepal.