The Mineral gaspeite
Gaspeite is a rare mineral, with a distinct yellowish-apple-green to bright green color. It has recently become popular among both mineral and gemstone collectors. Gaspeite specimens may be polished or sliced into slabs when sold on the market. It usually has brownish veins of rock running through the mineral, which are pronounced in cut or polished specimens.
Gaspeite belongs to the calcite group of minerals, a group of related carbonates that are isomorphous with one another. They are similar in many physical properties, and may partially or fully replace one another, forming a solid solution series. All members of the calcite group crystallize in the trigonal system, have perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and exhibit strong double refraction in transparent rhombohedrons.
Chemical Formula
(Ni,Mg,Fe)CO3
Color
Pale green, apple-green, yellowish-green, bright green
Properties
Streak
Yellow-green |
Hardness
4.5 - 5 |
Transparency
Transparent to translucent |
Specific Gravity
3.7 |
Luster
Vitreous to dull |
Cleavage
1,3 - rhombohedral |
Fracture
Uneven |
Tenacity
Brittle |
Uses
Gaspeite is a minor gemstone and is cut into cabochons and beads for jewelry.
Noteworthy Localities
Gaspeite is a rare mineral with few notable occurrences. It is named after its original occurrence in the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec, Canada, where it is found in the Gaspé mine, Murdochville. It is found in Australia in Kambalda and Widgiemooltha, Western Australia; in Lavrion, Greece; the San Benedetto Mine, Iglesias, Sardinia, Italy; and in the Pafuri nickel deposit, Limpopo Province, South Africa.
Distingushing Similar Minerals
Distinct color and mode of occurence in nickel deposits