Zoisite

Zoisite specimens for sale

243 for sale ยท $90โ€“$375,000 USD

358 in the gallery

Zoisite is a calcium aluminum sorosilicate that forms prismatic to tabular crystals with a vitreous to pearly luster. It commonly occurs in shades of green, blue-green, or brown, often displaying zoning along crystal faces and twinned habits in certain localities, and it can form in metamorphic skarns and serpentinite-related deposits. Notable specimens have come from Tanzania, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Norway, and the United States, where crystals exhibit sharp terminations and well-developed prism faces that thrill collectors of aural hues and distinct crystal shapes.

Formula
(CaPb)(AlAlAl)O[Si2O7][SiO4](OH)
Rarity
Common
Stability
Stable
Collector interest
Moderate Interest
Classification notes
Sorosilicate; Epidote group

Key characteristics

Crystal system
orthorhombic
Mohs hardness
6โ€“7
Specific gravity
3.1โ€“3.38
Luster
vitreous, pearly
Transparency
transparent, translucent, opaque
Color
colorless, white, gray, brown, green, blue, violet, pink, yellow
Streak
white
Cleavage
perfect
Fracture
uneven, subconchoidal
Crystal habit
prismatic, bladed, granular, massive
  • Gem mineral
  • Classic / historic

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Where Zoisite is found

Top localities

  1. Merelani Hills80 specimens
  2. Alchuri5 specimens
  3. Mundarara Mine3 specimens
  4. Arusha Region1 specimen
  5. Harding Mine1 specimen
  6. Jeffrey Mine1 specimen
  7. Loliondo1 specimen

About Zoisite

Collectors value zoisite for its optical variety, including color zoning, pleochroism, and occasional gem-quality material when cut as tanzanite-like varieties. While gem forms are relatively rare outside of specific varieties, well-formed crystals with rich color and clean faces from historic or renowned localities attract attention in cabinets and display cases. The mineralโ€™s broad locality spread and potential for striking crystal aesthetics make it a staple study piece for those building a curated mineral collection.