Where is Dumortierite found?
Dumortierite
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Open the appDumortierite 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 Dumortierite
Vysoké Mýto, Czech Republic
Type locality, known for its characteristic blue dumortierite.
Piemonte, Italy
Found in metamorphic rocks, often associated with kyanite and andalusite.
Namibia
Significant deposits, particularly in the Erongo Region, producing high-quality blue material.
Brazil
Occurrences in Minas Gerais, often as inclusions in quartz, forming 'dumortierite quartz'.
United States
Localities in Arizona (Yuma County), Nevada (Pershing County), and California (San Diego County), often in pegmatites or metamorphic rocks.
Madagascar
Known for both blue and pinkish-red varieties.
Collecting tips
- Look for Metamorphic Terrains. Focus your search on areas known for high-grade metamorphic rocks, especially those rich in aluminum and boron.
- Identify Associated Minerals. Dumortierite often co-occurs with minerals like kyanite, andalusite, sillimanite, muscovite, and tourmaline. The presence of these minerals can indicate a favorable environment.
- Observe Color and Habit. The distinctive blue to violet color and fibrous or columnar habit are key visual identifiers. Look for radiating aggregates within the host rock.
- Check for Inclusions in Quartz. In some localities, dumortierite forms fine, fibrous inclusions within quartz, creating a blue-colored quartz. This is a valuable find.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Blue to violet, reddish-brown, pink
- Luster:
- Vitreous to dull, silky
- Streak:
- White to pale blue
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