Augite | |
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General | |
Category | Silicate mineral |
Formula (repeating unit) | (Ca,Mg,Fe)SiO3 |
Identification | |
Color | Pale brown to purplish or greenish brown, also dark grey sometimes |
Crystal system | Monoclinic |
Cleavage | {110} good |
Fracture | uneven |
Mohs scale hardness | 5 to 6.5 |
Luster | Vitreous |
Streak | Greenish-white |
Specific gravity | 3.19 - 3.56 |
Refractive index | α = 1.671 - 1.735, β = 1.672 - 1.741, γ = 1.703 - 1.774 |
Augite is a mineral. The mineral's name comes from the Greek word augites, meaning "brightness". However, augites only look shiny some of the time. Most augites have a dull (dark green, brown or black) color. Augite is a pyroxene.