Boracite
A variety of Boracite Group
What is Boracite?
Boracite is a rare mineral often cut into faceted gems, but not particularly popular among collectors. It is found naturally in salt deposits, formed from seawater evaporation. It comes in several crystal habits in light shades of blue, green, yellow, gray, or white. When heated or under pressure, boracite generates an electric charge.
Etymology & Origins
The name is derived from its boron content (19 to 20% boron by mass).
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.658-1.673
- Birefringence
- 0.010-0.011
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Boracite 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.
Boracite Localities Map
See where Boracite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Boracite
Boracite is typically found in evaporite sequences associated with gypsum, anhydrite, halite, sylvite, carnallite, kainite and hilgardite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green, blue, colourless, grey, white, dark green (ferroan), colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7 - 7.5
- Density
- 2.97 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous, Adamantine
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mg3(B7O13)Cl
- Elements
- B, Cl, Mg, O
Also Known As
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Boracite FAQs
How do I identify Boracite?
Boracite can be identified by its hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale, Green color, Vitreous, Adamantine luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Boracite?
Boracite typically appears in Green, blue, colourless, grey, white, dark green (ferroan), colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Boracite?
Boracite has a hardness of 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
What is the formation of boracite of Boracite?
Boracite is typically found in evaporite sequences associated with gypsum, anhydrite, halite, sylvite, carnallite, kainite and hilgardite.