mineral
Epidote
Ca2(Al,Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH)
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale, Color: Pistachio-green, yellowish-green, or blackish-green, Luster: Vitreous to resinous, Crystal System: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, Specific Gravity: 3.3-3.5
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale, Color: Pistachio-green, yellowish-green, or blackish-green, Luster: Vitreous to resinous, Crystal System: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, Specific Gravity: 3.3-3.5
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily through regional and contact metamorphism of impure calcareous rocks, and as a hydrothermal alteration product of plagioclase feldspar in igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a mineral specimen for collectors, sometimes cut into cabochons or polished stones for jewelry.
Geological facts
Epidote gets its name from the Greek word 'epidosis', meaning 'increase', because the base of its prism has 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 hydrothermal veins and altered granites.
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Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral