Axinite-(Fe) is best identified by its distinctive sharp, wedge-shaped crystals that often look like axe blades. It is a calcium-iron borosilicate typically found in contact metamorphic zones where hydrothermal fluids have altered calcareous rocks.

Hardness

6.5-7

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineraluncommonAxinite Group family

Axinite-(Fe)

Hardness: 6.5-7
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

Is this axinite-(fe)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch axinite-(fe) with a known reference. Axinite-(Fe) sits at Mohs 6.5-7 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Axinite-(Fe) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Axinite-(Fe) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: clove-brown, plum-blue, honey-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: wedge-shaped, sharp-edged tabular crystals.

Often confused with

Axinite-(Fe) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Axinite-(Fe) is noticeably harder (Mohs 6.5-7 vs. 5-5.5); luster reads vitreous on Axinite-(Fe) and adamantine on Titanite.

Compare →

Often found alongside axinite-(fe)

Minerals reported to co-occur with axinite-(fe). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Ca₂Fe²⁺Al₂BSi₄O₁₅(OH)
Mohs hardness: 6.5-7
Density: 3.27-3.35 g/cm³
Colors: Clove-brown Plum-blue Honey-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Triclinic
Crystal habit: Wedge-shaped, Sharp-edged Tabular Crystals
Cleavage: Distinct On {110}
Rarity: Uncommon
Uses: Collector, Gemstone
Host rock: Contact Metamorphic Rocks and Skarns
Typical price: $20-150 for small specimens, $200+ for large crystals

Where rockhounds find axinite-(fe)

Classic worldwide localities

France
Russia
USA
Brazil
Mexico

Field-hunting tip

Look in contact metamorphic rocks and skarns country — that is the host setting where axinite-(fe) typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, calcite, epidote in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a wedge-shaped, sharp-edged tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify axinite-(fe)?+

Mohs hardness is 6.5-7. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include clove-brown, plum-blue, honey-brown.

Where is axinite-(fe) found?+

Notable localities include France; Russia; USA; Brazil; Mexico.

How much is axinite-(fe) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $20-150 for small specimens, $200+ for large crystals. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like axinite-(fe)?+

Axinite-(Fe) is most often confused with Axinite-(Mg), Axinite-(Mn), Titanite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with axinite-(fe)?+

Axinite-(Fe) commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Calcite, Epidote, Actinolite, Chlorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does axinite-(fe) form in?+

Axinite-(Fe) typically forms in contact metamorphic rocks and skarns. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is axinite-(fe) used for?+

Axinite-(Fe) is used in collector, gemstone.

Find axinite-(fe) on the map

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