Enstatite
Enstatite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.
About Enstatite
Enstatite is a silicate mineral in the pyroxene group (orthopyroxene) and has the chemical formula Mg2Si2O6. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Enstatite typically forms prismatic crystals; massive; lamellar; granular. Its color range is broad, including colorless, white, grayish, yellowish, greenish, and brown (bronzite variety). The luster is vitreous, sub-metallic, pearly on cleavage, the streak is white to gray, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is good on {210} — two directions at ~88°. The fracture is uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
For collectors, Enstatite is a benchmark crystalline species. Enstatite is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Fujian, Gansu, Anhui, Guizhou.