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Kyanite
Kyanite is a silicate mineral that can be blue, black, green, and orange. It commonly forms bladed crystals but can form masses and occasionally beautiful transparent crystals prized as gemstones.
Kyanite: What's in a Name?
The name kyanite comes from the greek Kyanos which means deep blue.
But this mineral has undergone a varied and rich naming process. At one point, Kyanite was named Disthen, meaning two strengths. This is because of the unusual property of having 2 different hardness measurements depending on which axis of the crystal is tested! Kyanite is much harder across the short axis of the crystal than along the long axis.
Physical Properties of Kyanite
Kyanite belongs to the triclinic crystal system, and has, and bladed crystal habit.
The typical habit of kyanite is bladed crystal, although it can also appear in many radiating crystals. It is also found in fibrous and columnar forms. It is associated with metamorphic minerals, including staurolite, garnet, and corundum.
Mineral Properties of Kyanite Chemical formula: Al2SiO5, aluminum silicate.Color(s): blue, green, white, gray, orange, and colorless
Streak: White, colorless
Luster: vitreous, pearly
Transparency: transparent to translucent
Crystal system: triclinic
Crystal Habits: bladed crystals, columnar
Specific Gravity: About 3.5 to 3.7
Hardness (Mohs): 4.5 to 5 and 6.5 to 7
Cleavage: perfect in 2 directions
Fracture: splintery
Uses: ceramics, gemstones, Mineral Specimens
Associated Minerals: quartz, muscovite and plagioclase feldspars. Location: Appalachian Mountains and in Minas Gerais, Brazil, and Switzerland.
Where can Kyanite Be Found?
Kyanite is found in metamorphic rocks like mica schists, biotite gneiss, and hornfels that have been under the extreme heat and pressure of continental collision. It comes from the alteration of sedimentary clay minerals. The areas that have kyanite present have undergone mountain building at some point. Locations where kyanite is known are the Appalachian Mountains In the USA, Switzerland, and Minas Gerais, In Brazil.
Metaphysical Properties of Kyanites
While this mineral is known for inspiring logical thinking, it is also recommended for raising phychic abilities and connection with spirit guides, Kyanites can help clear negative energies.
What is Kyanite Used For?
Kyanite is found in mineral collections everywhere but as a gem stone it is more rare and specialized. It also has many industrial uses.
High-quality kyanites can be cut into attractive faceted stones and cabochons. They are also used for making rings, pendant earrings, and other jewelry. Artisans also use kyanites to make flat geometry beads.
In practical applications kyanite is added to ceramics and porcelain to make them heat resistant. It is also use as an insulator in electronics especially where high heat is involved like spark plugs for internal combustion engines.
You can find kyanite crystals for sale at fossilicious.com.
Return to the Mineral Gallery
INTERESTED IN MORE? IF SO, YOU MAY WANT TO CHECK OUT OUR OTHER SITES:
fossilicious.com - Our online fossil and mineral rock shop.
fossils-facts-and-finds.com - An educational site about fossils.
