Location: Kariba, Zimbabwe

Size: 3.5 x 2.9 x 1.3 inches

Nice showy piece that has blue Kyanite blades in a matrix of Fuchsite. These are very different looking than the pieces from Brazil and will make a nice addition to your collection. I imported these directly from Africa and I am sure you will be as pleased with them as I was.

Mineral Species Information

Kyanite is a typically blue and found in aluminium-rich metamorphic pegmatites and sedimentary rock. The presence of Kyanite in metamorphic rocks generally indicates metamorphism deep inside the Earth.

An unusual property of Kyanite is that its hardness varies depending on which direction you test (4.5 -5 one direction and 6.5 to 7 the other) which also makes it a tougher stone to cut and polish. Kyanite is an important index mineral used by geologists to trace metamorphic zones. It is also used in the manufacture of ceramics and abrasives.

Fuchsite is a green variety of muscovite mica that often sparkles when the light hits it. Its green color is caused by small amounts of chromium. It has a hardness of 2.5.