Hypersthene
A variety of Orthopyroxene Subgroup
What is Hypersthene?
Hypersthene is prized by collectors for the pearly or copper-red play of color appearing along the surface of these grey stones when polished. Rarely, faceted gems are made, but the effect is not as brilliant as it is for cabochons or tumbled stones. "hypersthene" is considered to be an outdated name for its constituent mineral, but the term is still most commonly used in the gem trade.
Etymology & Origins
The name "hypersthene" comes from the Greek and means "over strength", and is an allusion to its being harder than the amphibole mineral hornblende (a mineral with which it is often confused).
Uses & Applications
Like bronzite, it is sometimes cut and polished as a gemstone.
Healing Properties
Hypersthene is often referred to as a magical stone and is believed to help in problem-solving. Many say the stone can allow for clairvoyance especially when used on the Third Eye chakra during meditation. It is believed that using the stone on any of the upper chakras will help a person find solutions to problems they are facing.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.673-1.731
- Birefringence
- 0.016
- Pleochroism
- Green stones - strong: dark bluish-green, brownish-red, yellowish
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Hypersthene 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.
Hypersthene Localities Map
See where Hypersthene is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Hypersthene
Color is often gray, brown, or green, and the luster is usually vitreous to pearly. The pleochroism is strong, the hardness is 5–6, and the specific gravity is 3.4–3.9. On certain surfaces it displays a brilliant copper-red metallic sheen, or schiller, which has the same origin as the bronzy sheen of bronzite, but is even more pronounced.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Greyish white
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5 - 6
- Density
- 3.2 - 3.9 g/cm³
- Streak
- Greyish white greenish
- Luster
- Vitreous, Silky
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Mg,Fe)SiO3
- Elements
- Fe, Mg, O, Si
Also Known As
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Hypersthene FAQs
How do I identify Hypersthene?
Hypersthene can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Greyish white color, Vitreous, Silky luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Hypersthene?
Hypersthene typically appears in Greyish white. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Hypersthene?
Hypersthene has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
What is the characteristics of hypersthene of Hypersthene?
Color is often gray, brown, or green, and the luster is usually vitreous to pearly. The pleochroism is strong, the hardness is 5–6, and the specific gravity is 3.4–3.9. On certain surfaces it displays a brilliant copper-red metallic sheen, or schiller, which has the same origin as the bronzy sheen of bronzite, but is even more pronounced.
