Anatase
Anatase is an oxide mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.
About Anatase
Anatase is classified as an oxide mineral in the anatase group (tio2 polymorph) and has the chemical formula TiO2. It crystallizes in the tetragonal system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Anatase typically forms bipyramidal (steep bi-pyramids), tabular. Its color range is broad, including indigo blue, black, brown, yellow, and gray. The luster is adamantine, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to opaque. The cleavage is perfect {001}, perfect {011}. The fracture is subconchoidal, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Anatase holds a steady place in systematic mineral collections. Anatase is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Fujian, Gansu, Anhui, Guangdong.