Musgravite

Musgravite

Musgravite from Sri Lanka, 0.59 ct
General
Category Oxide minerals
Formula
(repeating unit)
(Mg,Fe,Zn)2BeAl6O12
Strunz classification 04.FC.25
Crystal system Trigonal
Identification
Color Grey green to green
Fracture Conchoidal
Mohs scale hardness 8–8.5
Luster Vitreous
Diaphaneity Transparent
Specific gravity 3.62–3.68
Optical properties Uniaxial
Refractive index nω = 1.739, nε = 1.735
Birefringence δ = 0.014 to 0.016
References [1][2]

Musgravite or magnesiotaaffeite-6N’3S (chemical formula of Be(Mg, Fe, Zn)2Al6O12), is a rare oxide mineral. It is used as a gemstone. Its type locality is the Ernabella Mission, Musgrave Ranges, South Australia for which it was named.[2] It is a member of the taaffeite family of minerals.[2][1] Its hardness is 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale.[2]

References

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