How do I identify Kaersutite?

Kaersutite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Dark brown to black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Kaersutite?

Kaersutite typically appears in Dark brown to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Kaersutite?

Kaersutite has a hardness of 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Kaersutite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Kaersutite?

Kaersutite is a dark brown to black double chain calcic titanium bearing amphibole mineral with formula: NaCa2(Mg3TiAl)(Si6Al2)O22(OH)2. Ferro-kaersutite is the divalent iron rich endmember of the kaersutite group, with the iron replacing magnesium in the structure. It occurs as phenocrysts in alkalic volcanic rocks; in nodules of peridotite and gabbro in alkalic basalts; in syenites, monzonites and carbonatite tuffs. Mineral association includes titanian augite, rhoenite, olivine, ilmenite, spinel, plagioclase and titanian pargasite. It was first described in 1884 and is named for Qaersut (formerly Kaersut), Umanq district in northern Greenland.

Kaersutite Market Value Calculator

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

Kaersutite Localities Map

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

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North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Dark brown to black
Hardness (Mohs): 5 - 6
Streak: Pale brownish-grey

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula: {Na}{Ca2}{Mg3AlTi}(Al2Si6O22)O2 The Kaersutite group minerals are WO2- dominant amphiboles defined with : A(Na+K+2Ca)> 0.5 apfu, B: Ca dominant CTi > 0.5 apfu and WO > 1.0 apfu Kaersutite is defined with A position: Na dominant C2+ position: Mg dominant C3+ position: Al dominant
Elements: Al, Ca, Mg, Na, O, Si, Ti