Wollastonite

Real mineral · common · CaSiO₃

Calcium silicate forming in contact metamorphic zones where limestone is intruded by igneous rocks. Displays strong orange-yellow fluorescence. Used industrially as a filler and reinforcement in ceramics and plastics.

Identity

Formula

CaSiO₃

Chemical class

silicate

Crystallography

Crystal system

triclinic

Habits

tabular, massive, fibrous

Fracture

splintery

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

5

Density

2.9 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous, silky

Colors

white, gray, pale green, colorless

Streak

white

Transparency

translucent, opaque

Geology

Origins

metamorphic

Host rocks

marble, skarn, limestone

Associated minerals

Calcite, Diopside, Grossular, Epidote

Geography

USA, China, India, Finland, Mexico

Classification

Rarity

common

Gem quality

No

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