Chiastolite (a variety of Andalusite)
Current inventory:  0 gems
 

  
Chiastolite is named from the Greek word chiastos meaning crosswise or arranged diagonally in alusion to the pattern of carbon inclusions resembling the Greek letter Chi, which is written X.

Discovery date unknown;   IMA status:  Not Valid (a variety of Andalusite)

Chemistry

Chemical Formula:

Al₂SiO₅ + C

Aluminum Silicate + Carbon

Other

Synonyms:

Chyastolith, Cross-stone, Crucite (of Delamétherie), Crusite, Lapis Crucifer, Macle, Maltesite

Color:

Shades of Brown, Tan or Gray with a Black cross or X shape

More Information

Chiastolite is a variety of Andalusite.
For more information please see the Andalusite information page.
 

Mindat.org (Chiastolite)
Mindat.org (Andalusite)
Webmineral.com (Andalusite)
 

View mineral photos:

Chiastolite Mineral Photos and Locations

Chiastolite is a variety of Andalusite containg well-formed cross-shaped, or X-shaped inclusions of carbon that make the crystals very distinct and cabochons quite attractive. This cross shape is caused by crystal twinning and is common in some metamorphic rocks. Because of the impurities it contains, Chiastolite has a lower hardness and density than other varieties of Andalusite.

Distribution: In Australia: New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. Bio-Bio Region, Chile. Hunan Province, China. Pontivy, Morbihan, Brittany, France. Viana do Castelo District, Portugal. In Spain: Doiras, Boal, Asturias; Castile and Leon; Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain; Tuckingmill, Camborne, Camborne - Redruth - St Day District, Cornwall, England, UK; Glenderaterra Valley, Threlkeld District, North and Western Region (Cumberland), Cumbria, England, UK. In the USA: Coldwater Canyon Chiastolite locality, End of La Altura Road roadcut, Coldwater Canyon, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Mts, Los Angeles County, California; Mount Buckingham Group (Crown Point; Vanderbilt; Sunset III), Mariposa, Bagby-Mariposa-Mount Bullion-Whitlock District, Mariposa County, California; Inyo Mts (Inyo Range), Mono County, California; Camden, Knox County, Maine; Lancaster, Worcester County, Massachusetts.
 

  
Chiastolite gems for sale:

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