Kyanite

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Blue and black kyanite stone meaning

Kyanite is a typically blue silicate mineral, commonly found in aluminum-rich metamorphic pegmatites and/or sedimentary rock. The presence of kyanite in metamorphic rocks generally indicates pressures higher than four kilobars. Although it can be stable at lower pressures and low temperatures, the high activity of water under such conditions often leads it to be replaced by hydrous aluminosilicates such as muscovite, pyrophyllite, or kaolinite. Kyanite is also known as disthene, rhaeticite, and cyanite.

This mineral is part of the aluminosilicate series, a group that also includes the polymorph andalusite and the polymorph sillimanite. Kyanite displays strong anisotropy, meaning its hardness varies depending on its crystallographic direction. This property is unique and can serve as a quick way to identify the stone. Above 1100 °C, kyanite decomposes into mullite and vitreous silica, leading to expansion during the transformation.

The name “kyanite” shares its origin with the color “cyan,” derived from the Ancient Greek word κύανος (kyanos or kuanos), which translates to “dark blue.” Over time, this has become the most commonly referenced hue, although kyanite can also occur in other shades, most notably black.

Sample from Nepal

Identification

Kyanite typically forms elongated, columnar crystals, especially when the specimen exhibits its signature blue color. The presence of staurolite or other aluminosilicate minerals can be a clue to identifying kyanite in its natural environment.

The defining characteristic of kyanite is its anisotropism: the stone shows two distinctly different hardness levels on perpendicular axes, making it unmistakably different from most minerals. For instance, you can test kyanite’s hardness by scratching different crystal directions, which will yield different results.

Kyanite commonly occurs in gneiss, schist, pegmatite, and quartz veins that form under high-pressure regional metamorphism of pelitic rocks. Sometimes, it is also found as detrital grains in sedimentary deposits. It is often associated with staurolite, andalusite, sillimanite, talc, hornblende, gedrite, mullite, and corundum.

Black kyanite

Black kyanite is an aluminum-rich silicate mineral that also forms under extremely high pressure conditions, often in pegmatites. Most of the black kyanite on the market originates from the Minas Gerais region of Brazil, although deposits are also found in Burma, South Africa, and India. Black kyanite typically appears in radiating fan-like crystal formations, which are highly sought after for decorative and metaphysical purposes alike.

Occurrence

One notable occurrence is in the Manhattan Schist, formed under intense pressure associated with the collision of landmasses that created the supercontinent Pangaea. Here, kyanite can be found as one of the key metamorphic minerals, offering a fascinating record of Earth’s geologic history.

Blue and black kyanite meaning and healing properties benefits

The following section is pseudo-scientific and based on cultural beliefs.

Blue and black kyanite are often sought for their perceived healing properties. Many believe that this stone resonates strongly with the throat chakra, helping to improve communication and self-expression. It is said to dispel fears, clear energetic blockages, and encourage truthful and confident speech. Because of these attributes, many public speakers and performers use kyanite to strengthen the voice and soothe issues related to the throat and larynx.

Beyond communication, kyanite is also thought to encourage balanced energy flow. Some believe it can harmonize the mind and body, promoting mental clarity and a calm demeanor. Both blue and black kyanite varieties are popular for meditation practices, as practitioners claim it helps focus the mind while grounding and protecting the user.

Sample from Tanzania

FAQ

What’s kyanite good for?

Kyanite is often regarded as an excellent stone for meditation and attunement. Many believe it does not retain negative vibrations or energy, thus never requiring cleansing. It is also said to align all chakras instantly, provide balance of yin-yang energies, and gently move energy through the body to dispel blockages.

What is the value of kyanite?

The value of kyanite varies greatly, typically ranging from $20 to $200 per carat. Factors that influence its price include overall quality, cut, clarity, and size. Larger, eye-clean stones with deep, vibrant colors tend to be more valuable.

Where do you put kyanite?

For those who use kyanite in meditation or crystal healing, placing it on or near the heart chakra is common, as this central position is believed to help balance energies throughout the body. However, some prefer to focus on the throat chakra to encourage clarity in communication.

Is blue kyanite rare?

Large, clean crystals of blue kyanite are relatively rare. Although the stone is found in various locations around the world, specimens that are both sizable and have top clarity are uncommon, contributing to their higher market value.

How is kyanite mined?

Kyanite is typically extracted from quartzite rock through drilling and blasting. Sometimes a hydraulic hammer is used for secondary breaking. The ore is loaded into trucks after excavation and then transported to a primary crusher, where it is processed further.

Natural kyanite for sale in our gem shop

We make custom-made kyanite jewelry, such as engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Please contact us for a quote.