igneous
Indigo Gabbro
Gabbro (composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene, and olivine)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Black, charcoal gray, with indigo/purple or blue-green spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.7–3.3
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Black, charcoal gray, with indigo/purple or blue-green spots
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Black, charcoal gray, with indigo/purple or blue-green spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Phaneritic (coarse-grained); Specific gravity: 2.7–3.3
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich magma beneath the Earth's surface. This specific variety is primarily sourced from Madagascar and dates back to the Precambrian era.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a decorative stone, in lapidary work for making points and spheres, and very popular in metaphysical or spiritual communities.
Geological facts
Also known commercially as Mystic Merlinite. While technically a gabbro, its unique color palette comes from the specific combination of coarse-grained minerals including amphibole and quartz inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its heavy weight (high density), lack of quartz transparency, and characteristic 'flecked' or 'orbicular' patterns of lighter colors against a dark background. Commonly found in Madagascar.
