Zoisite
A variety of Minerals
What is Zoisite?
This rare mineral comes in a wide varieties of colors, including several prized gemstones. The most famous of these is Tanzanite, a blue-purple variety of zoisite that is mined in Tanzania and is extremely sought after (though only mined since the 1960s, it is quite popular and sometimes considered the birthstone for December). Anyolite and Thulite, which are striking shades of green and pink, respectively, are also zoisite varieties.
Etymology & Origins
The mineral was described by Abraham Gottlob Werner in 1805. He named it after the Carniolan naturalist Sigmund Zois, who sent him its specimens from Saualpe in Carinthia. Zois realized that this was an unknown mineral when it was brought to him by a mineral dealer, presumed to be Simon Prešern, in 1797.
Uses & Applications
Zoisite is a rarely-occurring mineral, and thus has few uses in industry. However, this rock is a common source of popular gemstones, including tanzanite, thulite, anyolite, and clinozoisite. All those gemstones are considered to be collector's items due to their rarity.
Healing Properties
Zoisite is believed to act as a "reset button," especially after a trauma or interruption in daily life. Many believe it promotes relaxation and improves physical ailments when worn. It is said to have the power to release a person's creative energy that might otherwise be blocked, allowing the individual to focus and regain intention with their goals.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.685-1.707
- Birefringence
- 0.006-0.013
- Pleochroism
- Strong
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.0196
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Zoisite 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.
Zoisite Localities Map
See where Zoisite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, purple, greyish-white, grey, yellowish-brown, yellow, pink, green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6 - 7
- Density
- 3.35 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca2Al3[Si2O7] [SiO4]O(OH)
- Elements
- Al, Ca, H, O, Si
Also Known As
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Zoisite FAQs
How do I identify Zoisite?
Zoisite can be identified by its hardness of 6 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color, Vitreous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Zoisite?
Zoisite typically appears in Colourless, purple, greyish-white, grey, yellowish-brown, yellow, pink, green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Zoisite?
Zoisite has a hardness of 6 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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