
mineral
Green Kyanite
Kyanite (Al2SiO5)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 4.5 to 7 on Mohs scale (anisotropic); Color: Light to dark green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal System: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.53 - 3.67.
- Hardness
- 4
- Color
- Light to dark green
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral →
Explore Green Kyanite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 4.5 to 7 on Mohs scale (anisotropic); Color: Light to dark green; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal System: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.53 - 3.67.
Formation & geological history
Formed during high-pressure regional metamorphism of clay-rich sedimentary rocks. It is a polymorph with andalusite and sillimanite, typically appearing in schists and gneisses.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacture of high-heat refractories (bricks, mortars, kiln furniture), spark plugs, and as a gemstone for jewelry or metaphysical collecting.
Geological facts
Kyanite is unusual because it has two different hardness ratings depending on the direction of the scratch. Green kyanite gets its color from trace amounts of iron or chromium.
Field identification & locations
Look for bladed crystal habits and varying hardness. Commonly found in Brazil, India, and parts of the United States like North Carolina and Virginia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
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
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary