mineral

Hypersthene

(Mg,Fe)SiO3 - Enstatite-Ferrosilite series

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs. Color: Deep brown, black, or dark green with a characteristic bronze or velvety luminescence (schiller effect). Luster: Vitreous to pearly/sub-metallic on cleavage surfaces. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Specific gravity: 3.4-3.9.

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs
Luster: Vitreous to pearly/sub-metallic on cleavage surfaces

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks through high-temperature processes. It is often found in deep-seated plutonic rocks like gabbro, norite, and anorthosite. Geologically, it spans various ages but is primary to the crustal formation of oceanic and continental plates.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (cabochons and wire-wrapped pendants) and as a collector's mineral. In some industrial contexts, specialized pyroxenes are analyzed for geological age dating and mineral research.

Geological facts

Hypersthene is often nicknamed 'Velvet Labradorite' due to its shimmering optical effect, though it is chemically distinct. While the name 'Hypersthene' is technically being phased out of official mineralogy in favor of 'Enstatite' or 'Ferrosilite,' the name remains the industry standard in the gemstone market.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'labradorescence-like' bronze sheen on a dark background when tilted under light. It is commonly found in Canada, Norway, the United States (New York), and Greenland. For collectors, search for specimens with a strong, chatoyant-like flash across the entire surface.

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