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Bronzite

A species of Enstatite, Also known as Bastite, Schiller-Spar

Bronzite is a decorative mineral that occurs in an almost metallic bronze coloration, which is how the mineral received its name. This mineral is a variety of enstatite as it bears iron (III). Bronzite is sometimes used to make ornamental decorations but is usually not the first material of choice.

Hardness:

5.5

Density:

3.2 - 3.9 g/cm³

General Info About Bronzite

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Physical Properties of Bronzite

Luster

Metallic

Diaphaneity

Transparent to opaque

Colors

Brown, greenish-brown, greenish-black, bronze

Magnetism

Potentially Magnetic

Tenacity

Brittle

Cleavage

Good

Fracture

Uneven

Streak

White, Brownish

Crystal System

Orthorhombic

Hardness

5.5 , Soft

Density

3.2 - 3.9 g/cm³, Relatively Heavy Weight

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Chemical Properties of Bronzite

Chemical Classification

Silicates

Formula

(Mg,Fe²⁺)₂[SiO₃]₂

Elements listed

Mg, O, Si

Optical Properties of Bronzite

Refractive Index

1.668

Birefringence

0.014

Pleochroism

Brown variety - strong trichroism: pinkish red to brown, yellow, green; Green variety - distinct: yellow-green, green

Optical Character

Biaxial positive or negative

Discover the Value of Bronzite

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Rarity

Uncommon

Collection Recommendation

4 out of 5

Popularity

3.5

Aesthetic

4.1

Rarity

Sci-Cultural Value

3.8

The Market Price of Bronzite

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Rough/Tumbled Price

Smaller Than Hand (0-1.5in)

$1 - $30

Close Hand (1.5-3in)

$25 - $50

Equal To Hand (3-6in)

$50 - $90

Bigger Than Hand (>6in)

$90

How to Care for Bronzite?

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Durability

Nondurable

Scratch resistance

Poor

Toughness of Bronzite

Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent

Bronzite's poor toughness indicates it may easily suffer from breaking, chipping, or cracking due to distinct cleavage and fragile internal structure, making it less suitable for daily use.

Stability of Bronzite

Sensitive

Stable

Bronzite is considered stable for daily use. It resists water, sunlight, and dry conditions well. While it should avoid high heat and harsh chemicals, these limitations do not significantly hinder its daily usability.

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Characteristics of Bronzite

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Cultural Significance of Bronzite

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Uses of Bronzite

Bronzite is a mineral that is sometimes shaped and polished for use in jewelry. It is valued for its swirled two-tone color that can make for a breathtaking necklace piece when cut into cabochons. Its shine and luster also lend this material to the creation of beautiful beads and tumbled stones.

The Meaning of Bronzite

Bronzite played an important role in Roman and Greek cultures. It is said that they used powdered bronzite as an ingredient of an elixir that had the ability to protect against mental illness and confusion. It was also used in protective amulets. Bronzite is associated with the Zodiac sign of Leo.