Enstatite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameEnstatite
Chemical FormulaMgSiO3
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavageGood on {210}, distinct on {100} and {010}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.2
Colorswhite, gray, yellowish, greenish, brown, bronze
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityBare Hills Copper Mine (Smith Avenue Copper Mine), Bare Hills, Baltimore County, Maryland, USA
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usescollector, scientific research, gemstone (bronzite variety)
Associated Mineralsolivine, plagioclase feldspar, augite, chromite, magnetite
Raritycommon
Description
The image shows a blocky, brownish-green specimen of Enstatite, likely the bronzite variety, exhibiting a distinct sub-metallic to pearly luster. Its surface displays some striations or lamellar texture.
Geological Context
Enstatite is a common mineral found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks such as peridotite, gabbro, and basalt, as well as in some metamorphic rocks and meteorites. It crystallizes from magnesium-rich magmas.
