The Story of Kyanite Gemstones

Kyanite

Source: This is an interesting mineral in that it occurs in metamorphic rocks in the form of the blades that you see below. It was only recently found a transparent crystals capable of being faceted, and has become quite famous in the market for its deep blue color.

The kyanite crystals can form to be several centimeters long. The longest shown in this photograph is more than 10cm in length. The presence of these kyanite blades can tell geologists much about the pressure and temperature of the formation of the metamorphic rock in which it formed.

Chemical: Al2SiO5 an aluminum silicate

Crystal System: Triclinic

Formation: In long blades

Properties: Hardness of 6-7 but quite brittle and will break easily down the long direction of the crystal.