Kyanite Silicate Mineral – Pack of 2
by American Educational Products

With its name derived from the Greek word kuanos, which means “deep blue”, Kyanite is a silicate mineral that is typically seen in its blue form. However, it can also be found in white, gray, yellow, pink, orange, black, and even more rarely, green. The inclusion of different elements affect what color it takes on, such as manganese, which gives it an orange color.

Kyanite is somewhat unique in that it has two different hardnesses that are distinct from each other along the perpendicular axes. It will have a hardness of 5.5 running parallel to {001}, and 7 parallel to {100}. While it can be used as a semiprecious gemstone, it is limited in this capacity by its anisotropy, or directional dependence, as well as its perfect cleavage. It has found a primary use in refractory, or the lining of furnaces, kilns, and other high temperature ovens, and as a part of ceramic products, electronics, and abrasives.

Each rock or mineral specimen measures approximately 1-2 inches in length along its longest side.

Origin: NV