Sinhalite
A variety of Minerals
What is Sinhalite?
Sinhalite is a borate mineral with formula MgAl(BO4). Sinhalite was first found in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) in 1952, and was named from Sinhala - the Sanskrit name for Sri Lanka. Gemstone quality Sinhalite can also be found in Madagascar, Tanzania and Myanmar (Burma). The most commonly seen color of Sinhalite are white to gray, grayish-blue or a shade of brown ranging from pale to dark. Pale pink and brownish pink crystals can be found in Tanzania.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.665-1.712
- Birefringence
- 0.036-0.042
- Pleochroism
- Trichroism: green, light brown, dark brown
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.018
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Sinhalite 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.
Sinhalite Localities Map
See where Sinhalite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless, pale gray, pale yellow, pale pink, green-brown to dark brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6.5 - 7
- Density
- 3.45 g/cm³
- Streak
- Colorless, white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- MgAl(BO4)
- Elements
- Al, B, Mg, O
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Sinhalite FAQs
How do I identify Sinhalite?
Sinhalite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Sinhalite?
Sinhalite typically appears in Colorless, pale gray, pale yellow, pale pink, green-brown to dark brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Sinhalite?
Sinhalite has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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