Larnite
A variety of Olivine Group
What is Larnite?
Larnite is a calcium silicate mineral with formula: Ca2SiO4. It is the calcium member of the olivine group of minerals. It was first described from an occurrence at Scawt Hill, Larne, Northern Ireland in 1929 by Cecil Edgar Tilley and named for the location. At the type locality it occurs with wollastonite, spurrite, perovskite, merwinite, melilite and gehlenite. It occurs in contact metamorphosed limestones and chalks adjacent to basaltic intrusives. Dicalcium silicate is chemically, β–Ca2SiO4, sometimes represented by the formula 2CaO·SiO2. When used in the cement industry, the mineral is usually referred to as belite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Larnite 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.
Larnite Localities Map
See where Larnite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, gray, colorless in thin section
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6
- Density
- 3.326 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca2SiO4
- Elements
- Ca, O, Si
Also Known As
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Larnite FAQs
How do I identify Larnite?
Larnite can be identified by its hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Larnite?
Larnite typically appears in White, gray, colorless in thin section. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Larnite?
Larnite has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
