About Zoisite
A calcium aluminum silicate, with notable gem varieties like blue/violet Tanzanite and pink Thulite. It's a stone of transmutation and vitality, transforming negativity and encouraging a zest for life. (Anyolite is a rock of Zoisite with Ruby).
Primary Hues
Green (common), Blue/Violet (Tanzanite), Pink (Thulite), Brown, Yellow, Grey, Colorless
Geological & Scientific Details
Zoisite is classified as a sorosilicate – epidote group mineral which typically crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. Its chemical formula is Ca2Al3(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH). Common crystal habits include prismatic crystals with striations; massive to columnar.
Key Geological Properties:
- Mineral Category: Sorosilicate – epidote group
- Chemical Formula: Ca2Al3(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
- IMA Symbol: Zo[1]
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Predominant Geological Color: White, gray, greenish brown, greenish gray, pink, blue, purple
- Crystal Habit: Prismatic crystals with striations; massive to columnar
- Cleavage: Perfect {010} imperfect {100}
- Luster: Vitreous, pearly on cleavage surfaces
- Streak: White or colorless
- Diaphaneity: Transparent to translucent