Tremolite
Image: Didier Descouens (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameTremolite
Chemical FormulaCa₂Mg₅Si₈O₂₂(OH)₂
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect on {110} at 56° and 124°
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3
Colorswhite, gray, pale green, colorless
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityCampolungo, Piumogna Valley, Leventina, Ticino (Tessin), Switzerland -TOPOTYPE
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usescollector, scientific, asbestos (historical)
Associated Mineralscalcite, dolomite, diopside, talc, serpentine
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a dense aggregate of elongated, prismatic to acicular crystals, forming a radiating or felted texture. The color is predominantly white to pale gray, with some areas showing a slightly more granular or earthy appearance.
Geological Context
Tremolite is a common metamorphic mineral, typically forming in impure siliceous dolomitic limestones or ultramafic rocks during regional or contact metamorphism. It is a member of the amphibole group.
