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Spinel
Spinel - Mineral Properties and Uses |
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What is Spinel? |
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide accessory mineral in basic igneous rocks such as gabbro and basalt. It is also found in metamorphosed argillaceous rocks and especially in marbles formed as a result of contact metamorphism. It is resistant to chemical weathering and abrasion and is often found in sediments derived from spinel-bearing rocks. Its main use is as a gemstone. |
Uses |
The primary use of spinel is as a gemstone. There is no industrial use for spinel in large quantities. |
Color |
white, colorless, red, blue, green, brown, black |
Streak |
colorless (harder than the streak plate) |
Luster |
vitreous |
Diaphaneity |
translucent |
Cleavage |
none |
Hardness |
7.5 - 8 |
Specific Gravity |
3.5 - 4.1 |
Distinguishing
Characteristics |
hardness, color, luster |
Crystal System |
isometric |
Chemical Classification |
oxide |
Chemical Composition |
magnesium aluminum oxide, MgAl2O4 |
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"Ruby" spinel, from Tanzania, Africa.
Each specimen is approximately 1/4 inch (.6 centimeter) across.
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More Information About Minerals!
Mineral photographs that appear on this page with a Geology.com copyright mark are property of Geology.com and may not be used beyond our website. If you like these photos and would like to share them with others please link to this page or email its URL. The photos were taken and composed by Ann Bryant.
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