mineral
Kyanite
Kyanite (Al2SiO5)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness varies from 4.5 parallel to the blade length to 6.5 across it. Color is typically blue, but can be white, gray, or green, with vitreous to pearly luster and triclinic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness varies from 4.5 parallel to the blade length to 6.5 across it. Color is typically blue, but can be white, gray, or green, with vitreous to pearly luster and triclinic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in aluminum-rich metamorphic pegmatites and schists under high pressure from regional metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Used in the manufacture of refractories and ceramics, high-temperature porcelain, and occasionally as a gemstone.
Geological facts
Kyanite's distinct anisotropic hardness makes it unique among minerals, being easily scratched in one direction but hard in another.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its bladed crystal habit, distinct blue color, and directional hardness differences. Commonly found in metamorphic terrains worldwide.
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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
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous