Hydroxyledgrewite is a rare calcium-rich garnet species characterized by its significant hydroxyl content. It typically forms in contact metamorphic skarn zones where limestone has reacted with intrusive igneous fluids. Collectors identify it by its close association with other calc-silicate minerals and its distinct, albeit subtle, cubic crystal forms.
Is this hydroxyledgrewite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch hydroxyledgrewite with a known reference. Hydroxyledgrewite sits at Mohs 6.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hydroxyledgrewite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Hydroxyledgrewite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, pale yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: dodecahedral crystals, granular masses.
Often confused with
Hydroxyledgrewite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside hydroxyledgrewite
Minerals reported to co-occur with hydroxyledgrewite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Ca₂Ca₃(SiO₄)(OH)₄
- Mohs hardness
- 6.5
- Density
- 3.32 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Dodecahedral Crystals, Granular Masses
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Metasomatized Limestone, Skarn Deposits
- Typical price
- $50-500 depending on specimen quality
Where rockhounds find hydroxyledgrewite
Classic worldwide localities
- Edgrew mine, Quebec, Canada
- Jacupiranga mine, Brazil
Field-hunting tip
Look in metasomatized limestone, skarn deposits country — that is the host setting where hydroxyledgrewite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, vesuvianite, diopside in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a dodecahedral crystals, granular masses habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify hydroxyledgrewite?+
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How much is hydroxyledgrewite worth?+
What rocks look like hydroxyledgrewite?+
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Find hydroxyledgrewite on the map
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