Amblygonite

A variety of Minerals

Amblygonite specimen

What is Amblygonite?

Amblygonite ( /æmˈblɪɡənaɪt/) is a fluorophosphate mineral, (Li,Na)AlPO4(F,OH), composed of lithium, sodium, aluminium, phosphate, fluoride and hydroxide. The mineral occurs in pegmatite deposits and is easily mistaken for albite and other feldspars. Its density, cleavage and flame test for lithium are diagnostic. Amblygonite forms a series with montebrasite, the low fluorine endmember. Geologic occurrence is in granite pegmatites, high-temperature tin veins, and greisens. Amblygonite occurs with spodumene, apatite, lepidolite, tourmaline, and other lithium-bearing minerals in pegmatite veins. It contains about 10% lithium, and has been utilized as a source of lithium. The chief commercial sources have historically been the deposits of California and France.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index
1.578-1.646
Birefringence
0.020-0.030
Pleochroism
Absent
Optical Character
Biaxial positive or negative
Dispersion
0.014-0.015

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Amblygonite before comparing listings or appraisals.

Size & Weight

Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.

Rarity & Demand

Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.

Condition & Finish

Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.

Treatment & Provenance

Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Amblygonite Localities Map

See where Amblygonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

The Meaning

Amblygonite has gained the nickname "The Prophet Stone" in the years since it was first found by Europeans in the nineteenth century, however, the understanding behind the name's origin is limited. It is believed that it may have been given this title in folklore because of use in divination as a "visionary stone."

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Amblygonite specimen
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Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Milk-white, yellow, beige, salmon-pink, pale green, light blue, grey, colourless in transmitted light
Hardness (Mohs)
5.5 - 6
Density
3.11 g/cm³
Streak
white

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
LiAl(PO4)F
Elements
Al, F, Li, O, P
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Amblygonite FAQs

How do I identify Amblygonite?

Amblygonite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Milk-white color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Amblygonite?

Amblygonite typically appears in Milk-white, yellow, beige, salmon-pink, pale green, light blue, grey, colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Amblygonite?

Amblygonite has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

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