Thomsonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Thomsonite?
Thomsonite, a rare mineral belonging to the zeolite group, was initially identified in material from Scotland in 1820 and subsequently named after the Scottish chemist Thomas Thomson. This mineral frequently showcases tightly packed acicular radiating clusters and spherical formations. It is commonly found in igneous rocks, particularly basalt, and is often found in association with other zeolite minerals such as mesolite and stilbite.
Uses & Applications
Thomsonite is highly prized for lapidary work, especially the banded varieties found along Lake Superior shores. It is also valued by mineral collectors and is sometimes used in jewelry as cabochons. Educational specimens are popular for teaching about zeolite minerals.
Healing Properties
Believed to clear mental fog and improve focus while facilitating emotional healing. Thomsonite is thought to strengthen the bodys electromagnetic field and help dissolve feelings of lethargy.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.497-1.530
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.014
Discover Values
This stone excels in rarity, collection value.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Thomsonite 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.
Thomsonite Localities Map
See where Thomsonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Named after Scottish chemist Thomas Thomson, who made significant contributions to mineral chemistry. Thomsonite is believed to promote balance, growth, and connection on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Geochemistry
Forms through hydrothermal alteration in volcanic rocks, filling gas vesicles and fractures. As a zeolite, it crystallizes from low-temperature aqueous solutions rich in sodium, calcium, and aluminum.
Associated Chakras
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, yellowish, pink, brown, greenish, colorless
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5 - 5.5
- Density
- 2.1 - 2.39 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous, Pearly
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NaCa₂Al₅Si₅O₂₀·6H₂O
- Elements
- Na,Ca,Al,Si,O,H
Also Known As
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Thomsonite FAQs
How do I identify Thomsonite?
Thomsonite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, White color, Vitreous, Pearly luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Thomsonite?
Thomsonite typically appears in White, yellowish, pink, brown, greenish, colorless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Thomsonite?
Thomsonite has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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