Brookite
What are Brookite Crystals?
Brookite is a titanium oxide mineral that forms in thin, tabular crystals. It is typically found as an accessory mineral in high-temperature metamorphic rocks, but it can also form as a primary mineral in hydrothermal veins. Brookite crystals are often found in association with other titanium minerals such as rutile and anatase, as well as with quartz and feldspar. It was named after Henry James Brooke, an English crystallographer.
Discovery
Brookite was first discovered in 1825 in the area of Pregraten, Austria, and was named after Henry James Brooke, an English mineralogist. Since then, brookite has been found in various localities around the world, including Switzerland, France, Italy, Russia, Japan, and the United States.
Physical Properties
- Color: black, brown, yellowish-brown, gray, white
- Luster: adamantine, metallic
- Transparency: transparent to opaque
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Hardness: 5.5-6.0
- Cleavage: perfect in one direction
- Fracture: conchoidal to uneven
- Specific Gravity: 4.0-4.2
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index: nα = 2.583 - 2.609 nβ = 2.584 - 2.610 nγ = 2.660 - 2.686
- Birefringence: δ = 0.077 - 0.077
- Pleochroism: weak
- Optical Character: biaxial positive
Occurrence
Brookite is primarily found in the following countries:
- Brazil
- Pakistan
- United States
Healing Properties
Brookite is believed to have healing properties that can benefit the nervous system and the immune system. It is also thought to help with concentration and mental clarity.
Uses
Brookite is used in the production of titanium dioxide, which is used as a pigment in paints, plastics, and paper. It is also used as a gemstone and as a collector's mineral.
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