Hypersthene is a variety of the mineral orthopyroxene, belonging to the pyroxene group. It is characterized by its composition, which typically includes significant amounts of iron and magnesium, along with some aluminum. Here are some detailed points about hypersthene:
Physical Properties:
- Color: Hypersthene can range from brown to green to black, often showing a bronzy sheen when polished.
- Luster: It has a vitreous to pearly luster on cleavage surfaces.
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale, hypersthene ranks between 5 and 6.
- Cleavage: It exhibits two directions of cleavage at nearly 90 degrees, which is typical for pyroxenes.
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic.
- Streak: The streak of hypersthene is usually white or gray.
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent.
Chemical Composition:
Its chemical formula can be generalized as (Mg,Fe)SiO3, where magnesium (Mg) can be substituted by iron (Fe) to varying degrees, influencing the color and magnetic properties of the crystal.
History and Discovery:
- The name "hypersthene" comes from the Greek words "hyper" (above) and "sthenos" (strength), reflecting its greater hardness compared to other minerals it was found with.
- It was first described by Alexander Naumann in 1834 from an occurrence in Norway.
Occurrence:
- Hypersthene is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks such as gabbro, norite, and certain types of schist.
- Notable locations include:
Uses:
- While not widely used industrially, hypersthene is sometimes cut and polished for use in jewelry due to its attractive appearance when polished.
- It has also been used as a refractory material in some industrial applications due to its high melting point.
Metaphysical Properties:
In the realm of crystal healing and metaphysical practices, hypersthene is believed to:
- Enhance psychic abilities.
- Provide grounding energy.
- Help with meditation and spiritual work.
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