Bronzite
Other Silicates & Gemstones
Bronzite is not a separate mineral species but an iron-bearing, partly altered variety of enstatite in the pyroxene group. Fine films of iron oxides and hydroxides along cleavage surfaces create its characteristic bronze-colored metallic sheen.
Identity
- Material or variety
- Enstatite
- Scientific or material identity
- Enstatite (bronzite variety)
- Classification
- Natural mineral or mineral variety
- Aliases or trade names
- Orthobronzite
- Composition or formula
- (Mg,Fe)₂Si₂O₆
- Crystal system or structure
- Orthorhombic
- Geological or manufacturing origin
- Can form in more than one geological environment, or combines several materials.
- Mohs hardness
- 5.5
Origins
South Africa · India · Brazil
Appearance & optical properties
chocolate-brown bronzite with bronzy metallic flash.
History & discovery
Bronzite was known before enstatite was formally described by G. A. Kenngott in 1855. Its modern name refers directly to the bronze-like shimmer developed on altered cleavage surfaces.
Uses & care
- Common uses
- Bronzite is cut into cabochons, beads, carvings and polished ornamental objects; rock specimens containing its reflective grains are also collected.
- Handling and cleaning
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Protect it from scratches and blows because it is moderately soft and has distinct cleavage; avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaning.
Jewellery
5 pieces of Bronzite jewellery. Learners earn each one in DigMyGem by learning words; until then it shows as a silhouette.
Bronze Guard Ring
Ring
A ring of dark bronze-toned metal holding a bronzite cabochon that flashes a silky bronze star, the stone's metallic sheen matching its name. It is a plain, sturdy piece.
Warrior's Pendant
Pendant
A heavy bronze pendant set with an oval bronzite taken for a shield in miniature, the stone's surface shimmering like hammered metal. It was made for a re-enactor.
Patina Brooch
Brooch
A leaf-shaped brooch in bronze with a bronzite cabochon set along each vein, so the metal and the stone share one tarnished glow. The wearer's coat is meant to look old bronze.
Bronzed Sheen Cuff
Bracelet
An imagined cuff with a long inlay of bronzite, a dark brown stone with a metallic shimmer like old bronze.
Warrior King's Torc
Necklace
An imagined heavy torc with terminals of bronzite, a brown stone with a shimmer like burnished bronze.