Description
Thulite Mineral from Norway
This specimen is a beautiful example of Thulite, a rare pink variety of the mineral epidote, collected from Norway, the country where the mineral was first described in 1820. The striking pink to rose-red coloration of Thulite is caused by manganese substituting within the epidote structure, giving it its distinctive appearance. Thulite is highly prized by collectors, lapidaries, and those who value ornamental stones due to both its rarity and vibrant aesthetic.
Every specimen is a 100% genuine mineral and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact piece you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube included for precise sizing.
Geological Origin and Formation
Thulite is found within metamorphic environments, most commonly associated with skarn deposits, metamorphosed limestones, and quartz-bearing veins. The mineral formed under conditions of heat and pressure, where manganese-rich solutions interacted with calcium-aluminium silicate host rocks to produce the characteristic pink coloration.
The most famous and type locality for Thulite is Lom and Tvedestrand in Norway, where it occurs in striking veins cutting through grey-green schists and gneisses. Specimens from Norway are regarded as the finest examples due to their intensity of colour and historical significance.
Mineral Type and Classification
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Mineral Group: Silicates
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Subgroup: Sorosilicates
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Species: Epidote (variety Thulite)
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Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH), with manganese substitution giving the pink colour
Thulite is considered the manganese-rich variety of epidote. While standard epidote is usually green to brownish-green, the inclusion of Mn²⁺ ions causes the brilliant pink hue that makes Thulite unique and desirable.
Physical and Morphological Features
Thulite displays several distinctive traits that make it easy to identify and highly appealing:
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Colour: Pink to deep rose-red, mottled or streaked, often in contrast with host rock.
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Lustre: Vitreous to silky on polished surfaces.
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Habit: Granular to massive, occasionally fibrous; rarely forms distinct crystals.
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Hardness: 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for carving and jewellery.
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Transparency: Typically opaque to translucent on thin edges.
These features make Thulite an attractive mineral for both collectors and lapidaries, with polished specimens showing enhanced colour vibrancy.
Scientific and Collector Importance
Thulite holds a special place in mineralogy as Norway’s national stone and a classic collector’s mineral. It was named after Thule, the ancient name for a mythical northern land, tying it directly to its place of discovery. Its rarity and historical significance make it a highly desirable specimen for collectors of European minerals.
For lapidary use, Thulite is often cut into cabochons, beads, or carvings. Its vibrant colour ensures it remains in demand for ornamental and decorative purposes. Raw specimens such as this one allow collectors to enjoy the natural, unaltered form of this manganese-rich epidote.
Display and Educational Value
This mineral specimen has been carefully selected for its strong pink colouration and its authenticity as a Norwegian Thulite. It is an excellent piece for display in mineral collections, educational settings, or as a decorative natural stone.
Owning a Thulite specimen from Norway provides both beauty and historical significance. It represents not only a rare and striking variety of epidote but also a celebrated mineral tied closely to the geological heritage of Norway. This specimen is a perfect combination of natural artistry and scientific interest, making it a standout addition to any serious mineral collection.
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