Scapolite
Scapolite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range.
Scapolite is a group of tectosilicate minerals, often forming long prismatic crystals and gemmy yellow, violet or pink stones, sometimes with a cat's-eye sheen.
About Scapoliteextended article
Scapolite is the name for a group of closely related tectosilicate minerals that form a series between sodium-rich and calcium-rich end members. It is valued by collectors and gem cutters for its long prismatic crystals and attractive colours.
Identifying scapolite
Scapolite is moderately hard (5.5–6) with a glassy lustre and good cleavage, occurring in white, grey, yellow, violet and pink. Gem scapolite can be transparent and is sometimes cut to show a cat's-eye effect; many scapolites fluoresce under ultraviolet light.
Where it is found
Scapolite forms in metamorphic rocks, especially marbles, and in some skarns and pegmatites. Fine crystals and gem material come from Brazil, Madagascar, Tanzania, Myanmar and Canada (the Grenville marbles of Ontario and Quebec).
About Scapolite
Scapolite belongs to the silicate class in the scapolite group (marialite-meionite series) and has the chemical formula (Na,Ca)4[Al3-4(Si,Al)3-2Si6O24](Cl,CO3,SO4). It crystallizes in the tetragonal system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Specimens usually show prismatic tetragonal crystals, often large; massive, granular. Its color range is broad, including colorless, white, grey, yellow, orange, pink, violet, purple, and rarely green or brown. The luster is vitreous, sub-vitreous, resinous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is distinct on {100} and {110}. The fracture is conchoidal, uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Scapolite is a recognized reference.
Frequently asked questions
What is Scapolite?
Scapolite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range.
What crystal system does Scapolite belong to?
Scapolite crystallises in the Tetragonal crystal system.
References & databases
Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database. Our descriptions are written independently and fact-checked.