Stishovite specimens for sale
1 for sale · $1,580 USD
1 in the gallery
Stishovite is a high-pressure polymorph of silica that forms in impact and subduction contexts. It crystallizes in a tetragonal system with a typically clear to white appearance, often compact or tabular crystals, and a vitreous to adamantine lustre. While individual grains can be small, some classic finds display sharp, well-formed octahedral habit that collectors appreciate for their rarity and the indication of dramatic geological processes.
- Formula
- SiO2
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Unstable
- Collector interest
- Very High Interest
- Classification notes
- Oxide mineral; SiO2 polymorph (tetragonal stishovite)
Key characteristics
- Crystal system
- tetragonal
- Mohs hardness
- 9–9.5
- Specific gravity
- 4.29
- Luster
- vitreous
- Transparency
- transparent, translucent
- Color
- colorless, white
- Streak
- white
- Cleavage
- none
- Fracture
- conchoidal, uneven
- Crystal habit
- prismatic, granular, massive
- Classic / historic
- Micro-mount only
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About Stishovite
Notable specimens have come from impact-related settings where the mineral forms under shock pressures, and from ultrahigh-pressure environments associated with deep subduction zones. These localities contribute to Stishovite’s reputation as a diagnostic mineral for extreme conditions, making attractive additions to carefully curated cabinets. Collectors value clean, well-formed crystals and those that demonstrate the mineral’s distinctive high-pressure crystal chemistry and resilience to alteration, which can preserve the original formative conditions for display and study.