Anthophyllite
A variety of Minerals
What is Anthophyllite?
Anthophyllite is an amphibole mineral: ☐Mg2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2 (☐ is for a vacancy, a point defect in the crystal structure), magnesium iron inosilicate hydroxide. Anthophyllite is polymorphic with cummingtonite. Some forms of anthophyllite are lamellar or fibrous and are classed as asbestos. The name is derived from the Latin word anthophyllum, meaning clove, an allusion to the most common color of the mineral.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.603-1.690
- Pleochroism
- Fe-rich - moderate: clove-brown, yellowish brown, grayish brown, brown-gray, brownish, clove-brown to dark brown, grayish blue to green, lilac
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive or negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Anthophyllite 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.
Anthophyllite Localities Map
See where Anthophyllite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Anthophyllite
Anthophyllite is the product of metamorphism of magnesium-rich rocks, especially ultrabasic igneous rocks and impure dolomitic shales. It also forms as a retrograde product rimming relict orthopyroxenes and olivine, and as an accessory mineral in cordierite-bearing gneisses and schists. Anthophyllite also occurs as a retrograde metamorphic mineral derived from ultramafic rocks along with serpentinite.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, greenish grey, green, clove brown, brownish green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5 - 6
- Density
- 3.67 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to greyish-white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- ◻{Mg2}{Mg5}(Si8O22)(OH)2
- Elements
- H, Mg, O, Si
Also Known As
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Anthophyllite FAQs
How do I identify Anthophyllite?
Anthophyllite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Anthophyllite?
Anthophyllite typically appears in White, greenish grey, green, clove brown, brownish green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Anthophyllite?
Anthophyllite has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the formation of anthophyllite of Anthophyllite?
Anthophyllite is the product of metamorphism of magnesium-rich rocks, especially ultrabasic igneous rocks and impure dolomitic shales. It also forms as a retrograde product rimming relict orthopyroxenes and olivine, and as an accessory mineral in cordierite-bearing gneisses and schists. Anthophyllite also occurs as a retrograde metamorphic mineral derived from ultramafic rocks along with serpentinite.
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