Titanite

Titanite is named for the titanium in its chemical makeup. It is a common accessory mineral in igneous rocks such as granites, diorites and syenites and can also be found in some metamorphic rocks. Titanite is also referred to by its older name, Sphene, though this is no longer common.

Chemical Formula:

CaTiO(SiO4)

Mineral Class:

Nesosilicate

Crystal System:

Monoclinic

Symmetry:

2/m

Hardness:

5-5.5

Specific Gravity:

3.4-3.55

Cleavage:

{110} distinct

Fracture:

Sub-conchoidal

Color:

Gray, brown, green, yellow, black

Streak:

Reddish-white

Luster:

Resinous, adamantine

Transparency:

Translucent

Common Habits:

Massive, lamellar

Other Properties:

Notable Localities:

Kola Peninsula, Russia; St. Gotthard, Switzerland; Vesuvias, Italy; Arendal, Norway; Riverside, California

Uses:

Ore of titanium oxide for paint pigment, minor gemstone

Associated Minerals:

Apatite, nepheline, iron ores, pyroxene, amphibole, scapolite, zircon, quartz

Specimens:


Titanite
Ontario, Canada