AllMineralsRock
Euclase
Euclase is a popular mineral composed of beryllium aluminium hydroxide silicate. [1]
Euclase: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Euclase:- Transparency: Euclase can be translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, euclase is monoclinic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, euclase is vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Euclase streaks white.
- Hardness: Euclase's hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Euclase's specific gravity ranges from 2.99 to 3.06.
Euclase: Background and Summary
Euclase is a rare mineral that belongs to the beryl family. It is a beautiful gemstone that is known for its striking color, which ranges from blue to green. Euclase is a silicate mineral that is composed of beryllium, aluminum, and hydroxide ions. It is a relatively hard mineral, with a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8.0. Euclase is usually found in granitic pegmatites, which are rocks that form in the late stages of magma crystallization.Euclase is a very rare mineral, and it is not commonly found in jewelry. However, it is highly valued by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts. Euclase is often cut into faceted gemstones to showcase its beautiful color and clarity. It is also used in research and scientific applications, such as in X-ray crystallography and spectroscopy.
To identify euclase, look for its characteristic blue to green color. Euclase has a vitreous luster and is transparent to translucent. It has a prismatic crystal habit and can be found in columnar or tabular crystals. Euclase can be distinguished from other blue or green gemstones by its high hardness and unique crystal structure.
Euclase: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Euclase (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent |
| Chemical Formula | BeAlSiO4(OH) |
| Chemical Composition | beryllium aluminium hydroxide silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.99, 3.06, 3.08, 3.1, 3.13 |
| Hardness | 6.5, 7.5 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | monoclinic |
| Refractive Index | 1.65, 1.676 |
| Hydrous | No |
| Colors | common: blue, green sometimes: yellow, colorless less common: pale, white, violet |
| Category | nesosilicate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.019 |
Euclase: FAQ
Q: Is euclase a valuable gemstone?A: Yes, euclase is a rare and valuable gemstone that is highly prized by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
Q: Where is euclase found?
A: Euclase is usually found in granitic pegmatites, which are rocks that form in the late stages of magma crystallization. It is primarily found in Brazil, Colombia, and Zimbabwe.
Q: Can euclase be used in jewelry?
A: Yes, euclase can be cut into faceted gemstones and used in jewelry. However, it is not commonly found in commercial jewelry due to its rarity.
Sources
- "Euclase: Mineral information, data and localities." Mindat.org. https://www.mindat.org/min-1438.html.- "Euclase: The rare and beautiful gemstone." International Gem Society. https://www.gemsociety.org/article/euclase/.
- Euclase: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euclase
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