The Mineral schorlomite

Schorlomite is sometimes regarded as a titanium-rich variety of Andradite, but it is recognized by the IMA as a distinct mineral species. Schorlomite is a rare member of the Garnet group, and some specimens labeled as Schorlomite are really just the Melanite form of Andradite. Schorlomite is named for its resemblance to the black Tourmaline mineral Schorl.

Chemical Formula

Ca₃(Fe³⁺,Ti)₂(Si,Ti)₃O₁₂

Color

Dark brownish-black to black

Crystal System

Isometric

Properties

Streak Colorless

Hardness 7 - 7.5

Transparency Opaque

Specific Gravity 3.8 - 3.9

Luster Vitreous

Cleavage None

Fracture Conchoidal to uneven

Tenacity Brittle

Crystal Habits

As small dodecahedral and trapezohedral crystals. Crystals are usually microcrystalline. Also grainy and massive.

3D Crystal Atlas

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Additional Information

Composition Calcium iron titanium silicate

In Group Silicates; Nesosilicates; Garnet Group

Striking Features Color, crystals, and environment

Environment In alkaline-rich igneous environments.

Rock Type Igneous

Other Names

Ferrotitanite

Noteworthy Localities

Schorlomite is not a common mineral. Its type locality, which has produced good individual crystals, is Magnet Cove, Hot Spring Co., Arkansas. Other localities include Jabal Bou-Agrao, Khénifra Province, Morocco; Tanfit, Ouarzazate Province, Morocco; and Hillesheim, in the Eifel Mountains of Germany.

Common Mineral Associations

Calcite, Magnetite, Orthoclase, Nepheline, Apatite

schorlomite Photos

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