Hedenbergite


Hedenbergite is a popular mineral composed of calcium iron silicate. [1]

Images of hedenbergite

Hedenbergite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

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

Hedenbergite: Background and Summary

Hedenbergite is a mineral that is classified as a pyroxene group mineral. It is a silicate mineral that is composed of calcium, iron, and magnesium. It is usually found in the form of prismatic or columnar crystals, but it can also appear in granular or massive forms. The color of hedenbergite is usually green, brown, or black. It has a vitreous or glassy luster and can be translucent or opaque. Hedenbergite is a common mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and it is also found in some hydrothermal veins.

To identify hedenbergite, one can look for its characteristic crystal habit and color. It is usually green, brown, or black, and it has a prismatic or columnar crystal habit. It can also appear in granular or massive forms. Hedenbergite has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, and it has a specific gravity of 3.4-3.5. It is insoluble in water and has a subconchoidal fracture.

Hedenbergite has several uses in various industries. It is used as a source of iron and magnesium in the production of steel. It is also used as a decorative stone in jewelry and as a gemstone. Hedenbergite has been found to have some healing properties and is believed to help with emotional healing and stress relief.

Hedenbergite: Table of Properties

Attribute Hedenbergite (src)
Transparency translucent, opaque
Chemical Formula CaFeSi2O6
Chemical Composition calcium iron silicate
Hardness 5, 6
Streak light green, green, colorless
Crystallography monoclinic
Hydrous No
Colors common: green, brown
less common: gray, black
Category pyroxene
Birefringence δ = 0.029
Fracture 1: 1


Hedenbergite: FAQ

Q: Is hedenbergite a rare mineral?
A: No, hedenbergite is a common mineral that is found in many locations around the world.

Q: Can hedenbergite be found in jewelry?
A: Yes, hedenbergite is sometimes used as a decorative stone in jewelry.

Q: Is hedenbergite toxic?
A: No, hedenbergite is not toxic.

Q: What are some other minerals that are commonly found with hedenbergite?
A: Hedenbergite is often found in association with other pyroxene minerals, such as diopside and augite.

Sources

- Mindat.org. (2021). Hedenbergite. Retrieved from https://www.mindat.org/min-1845.html
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Webmineral.com. (n.d.). Hedenbergite Mineral Data. Retrieved from http://webmineral.com/data/Hedenbergite.shtml
- Hedenbergite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hedenbergite

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