Actinolite

Actinolite

Actinolite is the name for the intermediate group of minerals that make up the middle of the tremolite-ferroactinolite solid solution series. These minerals form in metamorphic environments, most notably greenschist facies. Nephrite actinolite is a variety of jade along with the mineral jadeite.

Chemical Formula:

Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2

Mineral Class:

Inosilicate

Crystal System:

Monoclinic

Symmetry:

2/m

Hardness:

5-6

Specific Gravity:

3.0-3.3

Cleavage:

{110} perfect

Fracture:

Splintery, uneven

Color:

Green

Streak:

White

Luster:

Vitreous, silky

Transparency:

Transparent/translucent

Common Habits:

Fibrous, radial, massive

Other Properties:

Very tough and difficult to break, easily carved

Notable Localities:

New Zealand; British Columbia, Canada; Lake Baikal, Russia; Wyoming

Uses:

Ornamental stone, insulation

Associated Minerals:

Clinochlore

Specimens:


Actinolite
North Island, New Zealand


Actinolite
Chester Co., PA