metamorphic

Likely blue-green kyanite

Kyanite, Al₂SiO₅

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green, bladed crystals with a fibrous or striated appearance and vitreous-to-pearly luster are consistent with kyanite, though the photo alone cannot confirm it. Kyanite has Mohs hardness 4.5–5 parallel to its length and 6.5–7 across it; it is triclinic and has perfect cleavage in one direction.

Identified September 25, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Kyanite forms during regional metamorphism of aluminum-rich rocks, commonly at moderate to high pressure. Its age depends on the host rock and cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a refractory and ceramic material; attractive blue crystals are also collected and sometimes cut as gemstones.

Geological facts

Kyanite’s unusual direction-dependent hardness is a useful diagnostic feature. The specimen’s color and bladed texture fit, but other blue-green minerals can look similar.

Field identification & locations

The reported location in eastern Afghanistan makes metamorphic kyanite geologically plausible, but visual identification is uncertain; confirm with hardness, cleavage, or mineral testing. Kyanite occurs in metamorphic belts worldwide.