Where is Chiastolite found?
Andalusite variety chiastolite
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Open the appChiastolite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Chiastolite
Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
Historically significant locality, known for well-formed chiastolite crystals, often associated with pilgrimage routes.
Bimbowrie, South Australia, Australia
Known for large and distinct chiastolite crystals in metamorphic schists.
Massachusetts, USA
Various localities, particularly in metamorphic terrains, yield chiastolite specimens.
Brittany, France
Occurrences in metamorphic rocks, often found in schists.
China
Several localities, particularly in metamorphic belts, produce chiastolite.
Collecting tips
- Look in Metamorphic Terrains. Focus on areas with regional or contact metamorphic rocks, especially those derived from shales or mudstones. Schists, slates, and hornfels are prime targets.
- Examine Outcrops and Talus Slopes. Chiastolite crystals can weather out of their host rock. Look for prismatic crystals with a square cross-section. Breaking open weathered rocks might reveal the internal cross.
- Check for Associated Minerals. Chiastolite often co-occurs with other metamorphic minerals like muscovite, biotite, quartz, and sometimes garnet or staurolite.
- Look for the Cross. The most definitive identification is the cruciform pattern. This may require breaking a crystal perpendicular to its length or finding naturally broken specimens.
Quick Check
- Color:
- White, gray, pink, reddish-brown with black/dark gray inclusions.
- Luster:
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous.
- Streak:
- White.
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