Kyanite
What is Kyanite?
Kyanite is a typically blue silicate mineral commonly found in metamorphic aluminum-rich pegmatites and/or sedimentary rock. It is characterized by its bladed crystal structure and variable hardness depending on the crystallographic direction. Kyanite is often used as a gemstone and in industrial applications.
Uses & Applications
Kyanite is used in high-temperature industrial applications including refractory materials, ceramics, and spark plugs. High-grade specimens are valued by collectors and used in jewelry, though its varying hardness makes cutting challenging.
Healing Properties
Kyanite is believed to align all chakras and promote tranquility and calm communication. It is thought to enhance psychic abilities, aid in meditation, and facilitate dream recall while promoting logical thought.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.710 - 1.730
- Birefringence
- 0.016 - 0.020
- Pleochroism
- Strong, in blue stones: deep blue / colorless to pale blue / pale blue
- Optical Character
- biaxial (-)
- Dispersion
- 0.020
Discover Values
This stone excels in beauty.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Kyanite 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.
Kyanite Localities Map
See where Kyanite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Kyanite has been associated with communication, psychic abilities, and spiritual alignment. It is believed to promote logical thinking and healing, never needing cleansing as it does not hold negative energy.
Geochemistry
Kyanite forms during regional metamorphism of aluminum-rich sedimentary rocks under high pressure conditions. It is a polymorph of andalusite and sillimanite, forming at higher pressures than these related minerals.
Associated Chakras
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue, green, white, gray, yellow, or colorless
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5 to 7
- Density
- 3.53 to 3.67 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Al2SiO5
- Elements
- Aluminum, Silicon, Oxygen
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Kyanite FAQs
How do I identify Kyanite?
Kyanite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, Blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Kyanite?
Kyanite typically appears in Blue, green, white, gray, yellow, or colorless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Kyanite?
Kyanite has a hardness of 4.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.