Amblygonite

Amblygonite

Amblygonite is a mineral belonging to the phosphate group, with the chemical formula (Li,Na)AlPO₄(F,OH). It is an important source of lithium and is often found in lithium-rich pegmatites. The name "Amblygonite" is derived from the Greek words "amblys," meaning "blunt," and "gonia," meaning "angle," referring to the obtuse angles of its cleavage planes.

Properties

Amblygonite is typically white, colorless, or pale yellow, but it can also appear in shades of green, blue, or pink. It has a vitreous to greasy luster and a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6. Its specific gravity ranges from 2.98 to 3.11, making it relatively light for a mineral of its type.

The mineral crystallizes in the triclinic system, often forming tabular or prismatic crystals. It exhibits perfect cleavage in one direction and good cleavage in another, which is a distinguishing feature of amblygonite.

Occurrence

Amblygonite is typically found in lithium-rich pegmatites, often associated with other lithium minerals such as spodumene, lepidolite, and petalite. Notable localities include the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA; Minas Gerais, Brazil; and the Varuträsk pegmatite in Sweden.

Uses

Amblygonite is primarily mined as a source of lithium, which is used in the production of lithium-ion batteries, ceramics, and glass. It is also occasionally used as a gemstone, although its relative softness and perfect cleavage make it less suitable for jewelry than harder gemstones.

Identification

Amblygonite can be identified by its physical properties, such as its color, luster, and cleavage. It can be distinguished from similar minerals like albite and orthoclase by its higher specific gravity and its reaction to flame tests, where it imparts a red color due to the presence of lithium.

Also see

• Spodumene
• Lepidolite
• Petalite
• Lithium
• Pegmatite

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