mineral
Epidote
Epidote (Ca2(Al, Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH))
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pistachio-green, yellowish-green, or brownish-green; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction; Specific gravity: 3.3-3.5
- Hardness
- 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Color
- Pistachio-green, yellowish-green, or brownish-green
- Luster
- Vitreous to resinous
Identified More mineral →
Explore Epidote in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pistachio-green, yellowish-green, or brownish-green; Luster: Vitreous to resinous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction; Specific gravity: 3.3-3.5
Formation & geological history
Formed through the metamorphism of impure calcareous rocks, or via hydrothermal alteration of igneous rocks such as basalt and granite, typically occurring in veins and cavities.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a mineral specimen for collectors, sometimes cut and polished as an ornamental stone or cabochon for jewelry.
Geological facts
The name epidote comes from the Greek word 'epidosis', meaning 'increase', referring to the crystal base's cross-section having one side longer than the other.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct pistachio-green color and monoclinic prismatic crystals. Commonly found in locations like Austria, Norway, and various parts of the USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic