Euclase
A variety of Minerals
What is Euclase?
Rich deposits of this rare gem were first found in Russia's Ural mountains, but smaller caches of euclase have been sporadically found in other places across the globe. In those smaller finds, specimens are often overlooked and misidentified as less-desirable minerals. Euclase is quite soft and therefore not prime for use in jewelry.
Etymology & Origins
Euclase crystals are noted for their blue color, ranging from very pale to dark blue. The mineral may also be colorless, white, or light green. Cleavage is perfect, parallel to the clinopinacoid, and this suggested to René Just Haüy the name euclase, from the Greek εὖ, easily, and κλάσις, fracture.
Uses & Applications
Euclase has no important industrial uses but is sometimes sought after for mineral collections and to cut into gemstones. Its vivid colors and clarity make euclase a beautiful gemstone, but its rarity prevents it from gaining popularity.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.650-1.677
- Birefringence
- 0.019-0.025
- Pleochroism
- Weak: colorless to greenish, yellow-green, blue-green
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.016
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Euclase 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.
Euclase Localities Map
See where Euclase is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless, white, pale green to deep yellowish green, greenish blue, pale blue to deep blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7.5
- Density
- 3.115 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Monoclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- BeAl(SiO4)(OH)
- Elements
- Al, Be, H, O, Si
Identify Euclase Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Euclase FAQs
How do I identify Euclase?
Euclase can be identified by its hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color, Vitreous luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Euclase?
Euclase typically appears in Colorless, white, pale green to deep yellowish green, greenish blue, pale blue to deep blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Euclase?
Euclase has a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
