igneous
Pegmatite
Igneous Pegmatite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on mineral content, typically off-white to grey with dark biotite or tourmaline inclusions, vitreous to pearly luster, and extremely coarse-grained texture with large crystals.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on mineral content, typically off-white to grey with dark biotite or tourmaline inclusions, vitreous to pearly luster, and extremely coarse-grained texture with large crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow crystallization of residual water-rich magma deep within the Earth's crust during the final stages of magmatic differentiation.
Uses & applications
Source of rare-element minerals, gemstone mining, and industrial ceramic raw materials.
Geological facts
Pegmatites can contain some of the largest individual mineral crystals found on Earth, sometimes measuring many meters in length.
Field identification & locations
Identify by exceptionally large interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Commonly found in major cratons and mountain-building belts worldwide.
