Lazulite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameLazulite
Chemical Formula(Mg,Fe²⁺)Al₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂
Mohs Hardness5.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagedistinct on {110}
Fractureuneven to conchoidal
Specific Gravity3.1
Colorsdeep blue, azure blue, greenish-blue
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityCrosscut Creek, Area 1 (Kulan Camp), Rapid Creek, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory, Canada
Mineral Groupphosphates
Usescollector, minor gemstone
Associated Mineralsquartz
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen showcases lustrous, deep blue to greenish-blue lazulite crystals intergrown with numerous clear to smoky quartz crystals, forming an attractive mineral cluster.
Geological Context
Lazulite typically forms in high-grade metamorphic rocks, such as quartzites and schists, often associated with pegmatites or hydrothermal veins.
