Dravite
Dravite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.
About Dravite
Dravite belongs to the silicate class in the tourmaline supergroup / schorl-dravite series and has the chemical formula NaMg3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH)4. It crystallizes in the trigonal system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Dravite typically forms prismatic crystals with hemimorphic terminations; striated prism faces; typically vertically striated. Its color range is broad, including brown, honey-brown, yellowish-brown, brownish-black, and dark green. The luster is vitreous, resinous, the streak is white to very pale gray, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is very poor. The fracture is subconchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Dravite holds a steady place in systematic mineral collections. Dravite is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Yunnan, Sichuan, Inner Mongolia, Fujian.