Axinite-(Mg)

Axinite-(Mg)
Crystal fragment of gem axinite-(Mg) from Merelani Hills, Manyara, Tanzania
General
CategorySilicate mineral
FormulaCa2MgAl2BSi4O15OH
Crystal systemTriclinic
Identification
ColorLight blue, pink
Crystal habitCrystals with the characteristic axe shape
CleavageGood {100}
FractureUneven to subconchoidal
TenacitySomewhat brittle
Mohs scale hardness6+12 - 7
LusterVitreous
StreakWhite
DiaphaneityTransparent or translucent
Specific gravity4.97
References

Axinite-(Mg) is a borosilicate mineral of aluminum, calcium and magnesium of the axinite group, with magnesium as the dominant cation in the place of the structure that can also be occupied by iron and manganese. It was discovered in gem material from Merelani Hills, Lelatema Mts, Manyara Region, Tanzania, which is consequently its type locality. It was initially called magnesioaxinite, referring to its membership in the axinite group and the role of magnesium as the dominant cation. The International Mineralogical Association (IMA) later changed its name to axinite-(Mg). Occasionally it has been carved as a collection gem.