Vesuvianite

Real mineral · uncommon · Ca₁₀(Mg,Fe)₂Al₄(Si₂O₇)₂(SiO₄)₅(OH,F)₄

A complex calcium magnesium iron aluminium silicate first described from Mount Vesuvius. Forms in skarn deposits where limestone is metamorphosed by igneous intrusions. The californite variety is sold as a jade substitute.

Identity

Formula

Ca₁₀(Mg,Fe)₂Al₄(Si₂O₇)₂(SiO₄)₅(OH,F)₄

Chemical class

silicate

Also known as

Idocrase, Californite (massive green variety)

Crystallography

Crystal system

tetragonal

Habits

prismatic, pyramidal, massive

Fracture

conchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

6.5

Density

3.4 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous, resinous

Colors

green, yellow-green, brown, blue, purple, colorless

Streak

white

Transparency

transparent, translucent

Geology

Origins

metamorphic

Host rocks

skarn, marble, limestone

Associated minerals

Grossular, Diopside, Wollastonite, Calcite

Geography

Italy (Vesuvius), Canada, USA, Russia, Switzerland

Classification

Rarity

uncommon

Gem quality

Yes

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