Enstatite

Real mineral · common · Mg₂Si₂O₆

The magnesium pyroxene of the mantle and of stony meteorites, and one of the commonest minerals in the solar system though scarce at the surface. Clear green crystals are occasionally faceted.

Identity

Formula

Mg₂Si₂O₆

Chemical class

silicate

Mineral group

Aegirine, Diopside, Hiddenite, Jade, Kunzite

Also known as

Bronzite

Crystallography

Crystal system

orthorhombic

Habits

prismatic, massive, fibrous

Fracture

uneven

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

5.5

Density

3.2 g/cm³

Luster

pearly, vitreous

Colors

white, yellowish green, brown, greenish white, gray

Streak

gray

Transparency

translucent, opaque

Geology

Origins

igneous, metamorphic

Host rocks

peridotite, gabbro, meteorite

Associated minerals

Olivine, Diopside, Chromite, Magnetite

Geography

worldwide

Classification

Rarity

common

Gem quality

Yes

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