Home > Sinhalite

Sinhalite

A species of Minerals

Sinhalite is a borate mineral with formula MgAl(BO4). Sinhalite was first found in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) in 1952, and was named from Sinhala - the Sanskrit name for Sri Lanka. Gemstone quality Sinhalite can also be found in Madagascar, Tanzania and Myanmar (Burma). The most commonly seen color of Sinhalite are white to gray, grayish-blue or a shade of brown ranging from pale to dark. Pale pink and brownish pink crystals can be found in Tanzania.

Hardness:

6.5 - 7

Density:

3.45 g/cm³

General Info About Sinhalite

Instantly Identify Rocks with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock/gemstone/mineral ID and properties analysis, gaining quick insights on characteristics, market value, collecting tips, care, real vs fake, and health risks, etc.

Download the App for Free

Physical Properties of Sinhalite

Colors

Colorless, pale gray, pale yellow, pale pink, green-brown to dark brown

Streak

Colorless, white

Hardness

6.5 - 7 , Hard

Density

3.45 g/cm³, Normal Weight

AI rock expert in your pocket

Chemical Properties of Sinhalite

Formula

MgAl(BO₄)

Elements listed

Al, B, Mg, O

Optical Properties of Sinhalite

Refractive Index

1.665-1.712

Birefringence

0.036-0.042

Pleochroism

Trichroism: green, light brown, dark brown

Dispersion

0.018

Optical Character

Biaxial negative

Characteristics of Sinhalite

Your Comprehensive Rock Characteristics Guide

In-depth exploration of rock types, features, and formation aspects

Download the App for Free

Common Questions People Also Ask

Get Quick Rock Answers with a Snap

Snap a photo for instant rock ID and answers on characteristics, market value, collecting tips, care, real vs fake, and health risks, etc.

Download the App for Free