RockVault
Anyolite

Anyolite

Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Archaeodontosaurus" title="User:Archaeodontosaurus">Didier Descouens</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Mineral NameAnyolite
Chemical FormulaCa2Al3(SiO4)3(OH)
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak ColorWhite
CleavagePerfect on {010}
FractureUneven to conchoidal
Specific Gravity3.2
Colorsgreen, pink, red, black
TransparencyTranslucent
Type LocalityMundarara Mine, Longido, Mt Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralsruby, pargasite
Rarityuncommon

Description

A striking metamorphic rock characterized by a vibrant green zoisite matrix, prominently featuring embedded pink to red ruby crystals and minor dark amphibole.

Geological Context

Anyolite forms through regional metamorphism of chromium-rich rocks, where the presence of chromium contributes to the distinctive green color of zoisite and the red color of ruby.

Related Specimens