How do I identify Crossite?

Crossite can be identified by its hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, Blue color, Vitreous to silky luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Crossite?

Crossite typically appears in Blue, lavender-blue, dark blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Crossite?

Crossite has a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Crossite

A variety of Minerals

Rare

What is Crossite?

Crossite is an inosilicate double chain sodic amphibole and is a rare silicate mineral belonging to the riebeckite group. It is considered an intermediate between the amphiboles glaucophane and magnesioriebeckite, which form a series. IMA status: discredited 1997. Crossite is named after Charles Whitman Cross, an American USGS petrologist.

Uses & Applications

Crossite is primarily valued by mineral collectors and geologists as a diagnostic mineral for high-pressure metamorphic environments. It has limited use in jewelry due to its rarity and is mainly of scientific interest.

Healing Properties

Believed to help with emotional resilience and adaptation to change. Said to promote inner strength, help overcome obstacles, and encourage perseverance through difficult transformations.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.647-1.669
Pleochroism: Strong
Optical Character: Biaxial negative
Dispersion: 0.017

Discover Values

Rarity

4.4out of 5.0

88%

Popularity

2.8out of 5.0

56%

Beauty

3.9out of 5.0

78%

Cultural Value

4.1out of 5.0

82%

Collection Value

4.6out of 5.0

92%

Excellent

Perfect for general collecting and appreciation

This stone excels in collection value.

Crossite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Crossite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Crossite Localities Map

See where Crossite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

As a rare blue amphibole, crossite is associated with transformation under pressure and resilience. It symbolizes adaptation, strength under stress, and the ability to maintain beauty despite challenging conditions.

Geochemistry

Crossite forms under high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic conditions characteristic of subduction zones. It occurs in blueschist facies rocks and is an important indicator mineral for these specialized metamorphic environments.