Chlorite

Crystal system · Monoclinic

Chlorite is a phyllosilicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range.

About Chlorite

Chlorite is a phyllosilicate mineral in the chlorite group and has the chemical formula (Mg,Fe,Al)6(Si,Al)4O10(OH)8. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.

Identification & care

Specimens usually show scaly, foliated, platy; pseudohexagonal plates; fan-shaped rosettes; vermicular; massive. Its color range is broad, including green (most common), white, yellow, brown, and black. The luster is vitreous to pearly, dull, the streak is white to pale green, and specimens range from translucent to opaque. The cleavage is perfect basal {001}. The fracture is uneven, which aids identification.

Collector context

Collector notes

For collectors, Chlorite is a benchmark crystalline species.