Bronzite
| Colour | Brown |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 5–6 |
| Lustre | Vitreous to submetallic (bronzy schiller) |
| Streak | Grey-white |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Cleavage | Good |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Chemical formula | (Mg,Fe)SiO₃ |
| Specific gravity | 3.2–3.5 |
What is Bronzite?
Bronzite is a member of the pyroxene group of minerals, belonging with enstatite and hypersthene to the orthorhombic series of the group. Rather than a distinct species, it is really a ferriferous variety of enstatite, which owing to partial alteration has acquired a bronze-like sub-metallic luster on the cleavage surfaces.
How to identify Bronzite
- Lustre: Vitreous to submetallic (bronzy schiller).
- Hardness: Mohs 5–6 — about as hard as a steel knife.
- Streak: Grey-white.
- Habit: Orthorhombic crystal system.
Bronzite in different forms
Stones often confused with Bronzite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Bronzite?
Bronzite is Mohs 5–6 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Bronzite?
Bronzite is typically brown.