Thulite
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="http://www.mindat.org/user-2830.html#0">John Sobolewski</a> (JSS) (CC BY 3.0)
Mineral NameThulite
Chemical FormulaCa₂Al₂Mn(SiO₄)₃(OH)
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {010}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.15
Colorspink, rose-red, reddish-violet
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityLeksvik Thulite Quarry, Hindremseter, Leksvik, Nord-Trøndelag, Norway
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, carving, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen is a vibrant pink to rose-red massive mineral, showing a granular texture, with prominent white inclusions of quartz.
Geological Context
Thulite is a manganese-rich variety of zoisite that forms in regionally metamorphosed rocks, particularly in manganese-rich environments, often associated with epidosite or other calcium-aluminum silicates.
