Thulite
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Mineral NameThulite
Chemical FormulaCa₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {010}, good on {100}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.25
Colorspink, rose-pink, reddish-pink, purplish-pink
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityTvedestrand, Norway
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, hornblende, garnet, calcite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen of Thulite exhibits a vibrant rose-pink to reddish-pink color, appearing massive and granular with some lighter, possibly crystalline, inclusions that give it a slightly sparkly texture.
Geological Context
Thulite is a manganese-rich variety of zoisite that forms primarily in metamorphic rocks, often in manganese-rich environments or as a result of hydrothermal alteration of calcium-rich rocks.
