Staurolite is an opaque, cross-shaped ‘twins’ stone that is used in jewelry more often than a transparent stone. The latter is rare and cut for collectors only. Twins are also known as ‘cross-stones’. These are used as amulets and in religious jewelry. Crystals are reddish brown to black, with distinct plechroism. It is common to find short and black staurolite crystals in host matrix.
Occurrence
Staurolite occurs in Germany, Switzerland, Brazil, France, the USA, Scotland, and the former USSR.
Staurolite Properties
- Specific Gravity: 3.72
- Refractive Index: 1.74-1.75
- Birefringence (DR): 0.013
- Luster: Vitreous
- Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic
- Composition: Aluminum iron hydroxysilicate
- Hardness: 7
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