How do I identify Sinhalite?

Sinhalite can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Sinhalite?

Sinhalite typically appears in Colorless, pale gray, pale yellow, pale pink, green-brown to dark brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Sinhalite?

Sinhalite has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Sinhalite

A variety of Minerals

What is Sinhalite?

Sinhalite is a borate mineral with formula MgAl(BO4). Sinhalite was first found in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) in 1952, and was named from Sinhala - the Sanskrit name for Sri Lanka. Gemstone quality Sinhalite can also be found in Madagascar, Tanzania and Myanmar (Burma). The most commonly seen color of Sinhalite are white to gray, grayish-blue or a shade of brown ranging from pale to dark. Pale pink and brownish pink crystals can be found in Tanzania.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.665-1.712
Birefringence: 0.036-0.042
Pleochroism: Trichroism: green, light brown, dark brown
Optical Character: Biaxial negative
Dispersion: 0.018

Sinhalite Market Value Calculator

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

Sinhalite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Colorless, pale gray, pale yellow, pale pink, green-brown to dark brown
Hardness (Mohs): 6.5 - 7
Density: 3.45 g/cm³
Streak: Colorless, white