Kyanite, also known as distena, is a mineral belonging to the group of silicates. Its name comes from the Greek “Kyanos”, which translates as “blue”. Typically, it comes from metamorphic rocks, due to a metamorphism that happens in the region, which have a large amount of clays.
One of the most curious characteristics of this mineral is its anisotropic property. This term refers to the capacity of the hardness variation, rated on the Mohs scale, always according to the direction in which the mineral was crystallized. In general, this characterizes almost all minerals, however, in the case of kyanite, it can be considered as a distinctive feature of it.
If you try to cut a sample of kyanite perpendicularly, you will notice that it is extremely resistant, reaching a hardness of 7.3 Mohs, however, if you try to cut it or scratch it according to its length, you will notice that it can split or fracture very easily. It can be an extremely fragile mineral, and if it is hit, it is very likely that it will break. However, something that draws much attention to this mineral is its density, since it is incomprehensible how a hard mineral can be broken so easily.
In addition, a very characteristic property of kyanite is that it is not soluble in acid, which is the perfect option to eliminate some sedimentary remains that may be attached to it. Another property that it has is that it is infusible, this means that, no matter how hard you try, it will be impossible to melt or smelt a sample of kyanite, which explains its use as an insulator.
It is very difficult to find, and that is why it is usually very valuable. It is commonly used in jewelry, finding creations ranging from pendants to bracelets and rings. However, it also has a large extension in the industrial world, as in ceramics. In fact, the best known and high quality ceramics, porcelain, is actually made with kyanite, which provides that special blue color that characterizes it, as well as gives it the insulating properties of fire.
Also, kyanite has been used thanks to its refractory property in other areas such as metallurgy, which has been incorporated into various materials that must be subjected to high temperatures, with the need to protect from the heat their tools and the machinery they use. Also, although to a lesser extent, you can use kyanite in the field of electricity, to compose some necessary utensils in the branch since, although in a minimum amount, this mineral also contains some properties that isolate electricity.
The kyanite is a very particular and useful stone, in short, it is a very valuable mineral for the development of different branches, from ornamentation to heavy industries, and it is a great wonder of nature to be able to get a material with so many usable properties.
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