mineral
Epidote
Epidote (Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)AlSi3O12(OH))
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pistachio-green to dark olive green/black; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction; Specific Gravity: 3.3 to 3.5.
- Hardness
- 6-7 Mohs
- Color
- Pistachio-green to dark olive green/black
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 Mohs; Color: Pistachio-green to dark olive green/black; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction; Specific Gravity: 3.3 to 3.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed through low to medium-grade regional metamorphism or hydrothermal alteration of igneous rocks (calcium-rich plagioclase feldspars). Commonly found in schists, gneisses, and skarns.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as a decorative collector mineral and occasionally as a minor gemstone for jewelry. It serves as an indicator mineral in geological studies of metamorphic facies.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Greek word 'epidosis' (addition), referring to the crystal sides being of unequal length. Some of the finest specimens come from the Knappenwand in Austria.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct 'pistachio green' color and prismatic crystal habit. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains alongside quartz, feldspar, and chlorite.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous