Ludlamite
A variety of Ludlamite Group
What is Ludlamite?
Ludlamite is a rare mineral that was first discovered in Cornwall, England in the late 19th century. Taking on hues ranging from a very pale, mint green to a deep olive, crystals are only occasionally cut into gemstones. You are more likely to find one left in its natural formation, on the shelf of a rockhound's collection.
Etymology & Origins
It was first described in 1877 for an occurrence in Wheal Jane mine in Cornwall, England and named for English mineralogist Henry Ludlam (1824–1880).
Uses & Applications
Ludlamite is a rarely-occurring mineral, though small crystals have been used as gemstones in jewelry and other adornments. Because it is a very soft mineral, it is not the most popular choice for gemstones, as it can damage or wear very easily.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.653-1.693
- Birefringence
- 0.04
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
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Key Characteristics
Formation of Ludlamite
It occurs in granite pegmatites and as a hydrothermal alteration product of earlier phosphate bearing minerals in a reducing environment. It occurs associated with whitlockite, vivianite, triploidite, triplite, triphylite, siderite, phosphoferrite, fairfieldite and apatite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Apple-green to bright green, nearly colourless, blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5
- Density
- 3.176 g/cm³
- Streak
- Pale greenish white
- Luster
- Greasy, Resinous, Sub-vitreous
- Crystal System
- Monoclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2+3(PO4)2 · 4H2O
- Elements
- Fe, H, O, P
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