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The Mineral stishovite




Stishovite is an extremely rare mineral forming only from the impact of a meteorite through the metamorphism of Quartz at extremely high temperatures. It is interesting to note that Stishovite is scientifically classified as an oxide and not as a silicate, even though it is polymorphous with Quartz. This is because its crystal structure is identical to some of the oxide minerals, such as Rutile. In fact, Stishovite is isomorphous with Rutile. Stishovite is named after Sergei Mikhailovich Stishov (b. 1937), a crystallographer in the Academy of Sciences, Moscow, who synthesized Stishovite prior to its discovery.
Chemical Formula SiO2
Composition Silicon dioxide
Color Colorless to white
Streak White
Hardness 7.5 - 8
Crystal System Tetragonal
Crystal Forms
and Aggregates
Occurs only in microscopic platy grains.
Click here for a detailed explanation on the crystal structure of Stishovite and other forms of silica.
Transparency Transparent to translucent
Specific Gravity 4.3
Luster Vitreous
Cleavage 2,2 ; 3,3
Fracture Conchoidal to uneven
Tenacity Brittle
In Group Oxides; Simple Oxides
Striking Features Occurrence, hardness
Environment Found only at crater sites from the impact of a meteorite.
Rock Type Meteoric
Popularity (1-4) 4
Prevalence (1-3) 3
Demand (1-3) 3


Stishovite AUCTIONS

POLYMORPHS
Quartz, Tridymite, Cristobalite, Coesite



NOTEWORTHY LOCALITIES
The only localities are a few meteor impact sites, such as the Barringer Crater (also known as Meteor Crater) in Coconino Co., Arizona.

COMMON MINERAL ASSOCIATIONS
Iron-Nickel, Coesite



 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
 
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