Axinite
Axinite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range.
About Axinite
Axinite is a silicate mineral in the axinite group and has the chemical formula Ca2(Fe,Mn,Mg)Al2BSi4O15(OH). It crystallizes in the triclinic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Specimens usually show characteristic sharp-edged, blade-like crystals with acute wedge-shaped terminations; 'ax-head' crystal shape. Its color range is broad, including clove-brown, violet-brown, golden-yellow (tinzenite), gray (magnesioaxinite), and color depends on fe:mn ratio. The luster is vitreous, the streak is white to pale gray, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is good {100}, imperfect {001}. The fracture is conchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Axinite holds a steady place in systematic mineral collections.
Frequently asked questions
What is Axinite?
Axinite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range.
What crystal system does Axinite belong to?
Axinite crystallises in the Triclinic crystal system.
References & databases
Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database. Our descriptions are written independently and fact-checked.