Fayalite
Fayalite is a silicate mineral recognized among collectors for its crystal form and distribution, with known Chinese sources.
About Fayalite
Fayalite belongs to the silicate class in the olivine group and has the chemical formula Fe2SiO4. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and holds a steady position among silicate species.
Identification & care
Fayalite typically forms massive, granular; rarely tabular crystals. Its color is typically yellow-green, olive-green and yellowish brown to brown-black. The luster is vitreous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to opaque. The cleavage is imperfect {010} and {100}. The fracture is conchoidal, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
For collectors, Fayalite is a benchmark crystalline species. Fayalite is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Sichuan, Inner Mongolia, Fujian, Gansu.