Danburite

Real mineral · rare · CaB₂Si₂O₈

Calcium boron silicate forming colourless to pale yellow prismatic crystals in metamorphic and hydrothermal environments. Its excellent transparency and high refractive index make it a viable diamond simulant when faceted.

Identity

Formula
CaB₂Si₂O₈
Chemical class
silicate

Crystallography

Crystal system
orthorhombic
Habits
prismatic, wedge-shaped
Fracture
subconchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness
7
Density
3 g/cm³
Luster
vitreous
Colors
colorless, pale yellow, pink, white
Streak
white
Transparency
transparent

Geology

Origins
metamorphic, hydrothermal
Host rocks
skarn, marble, evaporite
Associated minerals
feldspar, Quartz, Calcite, Diopside
Geography
Mexico, Japan, Myanmar, Russia, USA (Connecticut)

Classification

Rarity
rare
Gem quality
Yes

Arcane properties

Affinity
light, arcane
Effects
warding, scrying
Planar origin
Material Plane

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