Ludwigite
A variety of Ludwigite Group
What is Ludwigite?
Ludwigite is a magnesium-iron borate mineral: Mg2FeBO5. Ludwigite typically occurs in magnesian iron skarn and other high temperature contact metamorphic deposits. It occurs in association with magnetite, forsterite, clinohumite and the borates vonsenite and szaibelyite. It forma a solid solution series with the iron(II)-iron(III) borate mineral vonsenite. It was first described in 1874 for an occurrence in Ocna de Fier, Banat Mountains, Caraș-Severin County, Romania and named for Ernst Ludwig (1842–1915), an Austrian chemist at the University of Vienna.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Ludwigite 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.
Ludwigite Localities Map
See where Ludwigite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark-green to black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5
- Density
- 3.6 g/cm³
- Streak
- Black, blackish green
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mg2Fe3+(BO3)O2
Also Known As
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Ludwigite FAQs
How do I identify Ludwigite?
Ludwigite can be identified by its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale, Dark-green to black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Ludwigite?
Ludwigite typically appears in Dark-green to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Ludwigite?
Ludwigite has a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.