How do I identify Thomsonite?

Thomsonite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, White color, Vitreous, Pearly luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Thomsonite?

Thomsonite typically appears in White, yellowish, pink, brown, greenish, colorless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Thomsonite?

Thomsonite has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Thomsonite

A variety of Minerals

Rare

Thomsonite specimen - rock identification

What is Thomsonite?

Thomsonite, a rare mineral belonging to the zeolite group, was initially identified in material from Scotland in 1820 and subsequently named after the Scottish chemist Thomas Thomson. This mineral frequently showcases tightly packed acicular radiating clusters and spherical formations. It is commonly found in igneous rocks, particularly basalt, and is often found in association with other zeolite minerals such as mesolite and stilbite.

Uses & Applications

Thomsonite is highly prized for lapidary work, especially the banded varieties found along Lake Superior shores. It is also valued by mineral collectors and is sometimes used in jewelry as cabochons. Educational specimens are popular for teaching about zeolite minerals.

Healing Properties

Believed to clear mental fog and improve focus while facilitating emotional healing. Thomsonite is thought to strengthen the bodys electromagnetic field and help dissolve feelings of lethargy.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.497-1.530
Pleochroism: None
Optical Character: Biaxial positive
Dispersion: 0.014

Discover Values

Rarity

4.8out of 5.0

96%

Excellent

Popularity

3.8out of 5.0

76%

Beauty

4.4out of 5.0

88%

Cultural Value

4.1out of 5.0

82%

Collection Value

4.5out of 5.0

90%

Excellent

Perfect for serious collectors and investments

This stone excels in rarity, collection value.

Thomsonite Market Value Calculator

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

Thomsonite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

Named after Scottish chemist Thomas Thomson, who made significant contributions to mineral chemistry. Thomsonite is believed to promote balance, growth, and connection on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Geochemistry

Forms through hydrothermal alteration in volcanic rocks, filling gas vesicles and fractures. As a zeolite, it crystallizes from low-temperature aqueous solutions rich in sodium, calcium, and aluminum.