Clinohumite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameClinohumite
Chemical FormulaMg9(SiO4)4(F,OH)2
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagepoor on {001}
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity3.2
Colorsyellow, orange, reddish-brown, brown
Transparencytransparent to translucent
Type LocalityPein Pyit (Painpyit), Mogok, Sagaing District, Mandalay Division, Burma (Myanmar)
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, collector
Associated Mineralsforsterite, diopside, spinel, phlogopite, calcite, dolomite, magnetite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This image features a well-formed, yellowish-orange crystal of clinohumite, exhibiting a vitreous luster and good transparency. The crystal shows distinct faces and sharp edges, typical of a high-quality mineral specimen.
Geological Context
Clinohumite forms primarily in metamorphosed dolomitic limestones and serpentinites, often under conditions of contact or regional metamorphism. It is a characteristic mineral of the humite group, indicating specific high-temperature, low-pressure metamorphic environments.
