mineral
Fairy Stone (Staurolite Cross)
Staurolite (Fe2Al9O6(SiO4)4(O,OH)2)
Hardness: 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, dark brown, or yellowish-brown; Luster: Vitrescent to resinous, sometimes dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic, frequently forming distinct 60-degree or 90-degree twin crystals resembling crosses; Cleavage: Distinct on {031}, poor on {100};…
- Hardness
- 7-7
- Color
- Reddish-brown, dark brown, or yellowish-brown
- Luster
- Vitrescent to resinous, sometimes dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, dark brown, or yellowish-brown; Luster: Vitrescent to resinous, sometimes dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic, frequently forming distinct 60-degree or 90-degree twin crystals resembling crosses; Cleavage: Distinct on {031}, poor on {100}; Specific Gravity: 3.7-3.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through regional metamorphism of aluminum-rich pelitic rocks like schist and gneiss, typically during mountain-building events (orogenies) occurring hundreds of millions of years ago.
Uses & applications
Collected as a geological novelty, good luck charm, jewelry, and ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Also known as fairy crosses, these natural twin crystals have inspired numerous Native American and Christian folklore legends regarding fairies and tears of grief. They are the official state mineral of Virginia.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by their characteristic cross-shaped twinning embedded in mica schist matrices. Commonly found in areas with deeply weathered schist, particularly in Patrick County, Virginia, and various locations worldwide such as Switzerland, France, and Russia.
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