Inesite
Inesite
Published: June 2014
Modified: January 2022
Inesite is part of the triclinic crystal system. It typically has pink spindly crystals that radiate out in fan like clusters. The mineral gets its name from the Greek word for “flesh fibers” due to its appearance. It is a late-stage hydrothermal mineral found in manganese deposits.
General Information
Common Name
Inesite
Species
Inesite
Transparency
Translucent-Transparent
Dispersion
Strength: Weak Fire
Refractive Index
1.609-1.644
Birefringence
0.035
Optic Character
Biaxial
Optic Sign
Negative
Polariscope Reaction
Aggregate (AGG), Anomalous Double Refraction (ADR)
Fluorescence
SWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert
Pleochroism
Unobservable
Hardness
5.5-6
Streak
White
Toughness
Poor
Luster
Vitreous, Silky
Stability
Brittle
Fracture
Uneven
Cleavage
Perfect, Good
Chemical Name
hydrous calcium manganese silicate
Chemical Formula
Ca2Mn7 2+ Si10O28(OH)2 . 5H2O
Crystal System
Triclinic
Chemistry Classification
Silicate
Inesite Colors
-
Brown -
Orange -
Pink -
Red
Countries of Origin
Romania; Hungary; Japan; United States of America; Spain; New Zealand; Sweden; Unknown; China; Italy; Mexico; South Africa; Slovakia; Australia; Germany; Indonesia
Care
Inesite is brittle so care needs to be taken with specimens. It weathers to pale brown.