Hiddenite

Real mineral · very rare · LiAlSi₂O₆

The green gem variety of spodumene, coloured by chromium. Extremely rare in facetable quality. First discovered in Alexander County, North Carolina, in 1879. Loses colour on prolonged exposure to strong light.

Identity

Formula

LiAlSi₂O₆

Chemical class

silicate

Mineral group

Aegirine, Diopside, Enstatite, Jade, Kunzite

Also known as

Green spodumene, Lithia emerald (misnomer)

Crystallography

Crystal system

monoclinic

Habits

prismatic, tabular

Fracture

subconchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

7

Density

3.18 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous

Colors

green, yellow-green, pale green

Streak

white

Transparency

transparent

Geology

Origins

igneous

Host rocks

pegmatite

Associated minerals

Quartz, feldspar, Tourmaline, Kunzite

Geography

USA (North Carolina), Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar

Classification

Rarity

very rare

Gem quality

Yes

Browse the Crystal Encyclopedia — MGS Toolbox