Augite

Augite is a popular mineral composed of silicate of calcium, sodium. ^[1]

Augite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Augite:

• Transparency: Augite can be opaque or translucent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, augite is monoclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, augite can be dull or vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Augite streaks colorless, green, green colorless or light green.
• Hardness: Augite's hardness ranges from 5 to 6 on the Moh's scale.

Augite: Background and Summary

Augite is a common mineral found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It belongs to the pyroxene group of minerals and has a chemical formula of (Ca,Na)(Mg,Fe,Al,Ti)(Si,Al)2O6. It is usually black or dark green in color, with a vitreous to dull luster. Its cleavage is imperfect and it has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale.

To identify augite, it is best to observe its crystal habit, color, and cleavage. Augite crystals are typically elongated and prismatic, with a square or rectangular cross-section. Its color can range from black to dark green, and its cleavage is often visible as straight lines on the crystal faces. Augite can also be identified by its specific gravity, which ranges from 3.2 to 3.6.

Augite has several uses in industry and manufacturing. Its hardness and durability make it useful as an abrasive material, used in sandpaper and grinding wheels. It is also used in the production of ceramics, as a fluxing agent in the melting process. Augite is also a source of magnesium and iron, which are used in the production of steel and other alloys.