Where is Bronzite found?
Enstatite (variety Bronzite)
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Open the appBronzite 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 Bronzite
Bushveld Igneous Complex, South Africa
A world-renowned source of various platinum-group metals and associated minerals, including significant occurrences of bronzite in norites and pyroxenites.
Stillwater Complex, Montana, USA
Another major layered igneous intrusion known for its platinum-group element deposits and associated mafic and ultramafic rocks containing bronzite.
Norway
Occurrences in various gabbroic and noritic intrusions.
India
Found in certain igneous and metamorphic terrains.
Austria
Known localities for enstatite and its varieties.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Look for bronzite in areas known for mafic and ultramafic igneous intrusions or high-grade metamorphic terranes. It is often associated with other pyroxenes, olivine, plagioclase feldspar, and sometimes chromite or magnetite.
- Luster and Color. The most distinctive feature is its bronzy, submetallic luster (schiller) and characteristic greenish-brown to dark brown color. Rotate the sample under light to observe the schiller effect.
- Hardness Test. Bronzite has a Mohs hardness of 5-6, meaning it can scratch glass but can be scratched by a steel file. This helps differentiate it from softer minerals.
- Cleavage. Observe the two distinct cleavage planes intersecting at approximately 90 degrees, characteristic of orthopyroxenes.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Greenish-brown to dark brown with bronzy reflections.
- Luster:
- Submetallic to bronzy (schiller).
- Streak:
- White to grayish-white.
Explore Bronzite
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