Bronzite
Enstatite var. Bronzite · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Orthorhombic; typically found as massive or lamellar aggregates in tumbled form
Mineral Group
Silicates; Inosilicate (Pyroxene Group)
Chemical Formula
(Mg,Fe)2Si2O6 (magnesium iron silicate)
Formation Process
Igneous formation; crystallizes in deep-seated plutonic rocks like gabbro or peridotite under high heat
About This Crystal
An opaque, chocolate-brown to deep bronze stone with a sub-metallic to vitreous luster. This tumbled specimen shows a characteristic silky, fibrous appearance with golden-brown schiller or 'catseye' highlights due to iron-rich inclusions.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Bronze-brown; Streak: White to grey-green; Cleavage: Good in two directions at 90 degrees; Fracture: Uneven; Specific Gravity: 3.2 - 3.5; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Generally none.
Optical Properties
Sub-metallic luster; shows chatoyancy or 'schiller' effect (metallic-like sheen) due to the alignment of fibrous inclusions; Refractive Index: 1.65 - 1.67; Birefringence: 0.007 to 0.011.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Austria, South Africa, and Greenland; found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5.5; fair durability but susceptible to scratching. Brittle toughness requires protection from hard impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder stones like quartz or topaz to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common; relatively inexpensive. Value is based on the quality of the metallic 'schiller' or bronze flash. Generally untreated.
Special Characteristics
Displays metallic-like schiller (a form of chatoyancy) caused by the parallel orientation of iron-bearing mineral plates within the silicate structure.
Lore & History
Historically known as a stone of courtesy and protection in ancient Roman lore. In modern crystal healing, it is traditionally associated with the Root and Sacral chakras and believed to promote grounding, objective thinking, and confidence (non-scientific claims).