Tremolite Gemstones: Hexagonite, Tremolite and Beyond

In the world of less common gemstones, a mineral known as tremolite exists. It belongs to a group of minerals known as amphibole asbestos minerals. The group includes crocidolite, anthophyllite, amosite, and actinolite. The mineral tremolite is common worldwide, but gemstones are rare. It is rare because tremolite often forms crystals that aren’t facetable.

Of the varieties of tremolite, hexagonite is the rarest. It’s also known as purple tremolite. Other notable varieties are chrome tremolite, byssolite, and cat’s eye tremolite. While tremolite usually has a green appearance, it can occur in many colors, including pink, lilac, yellow, gray, or brown.

Tremolite Hexagonite is a rare, purple-hued variety of the mineral Tremolite, characterized by its unique hexagonal crystal structure and often sought-after in the gemstone world for its distinctive color and crystal form.

Closely related metamorphic rocks that are considered gemstones also exist. Jadeite and nephrite are well-known examples of gemstones that may contain tremolite. If tremolite is present in jade, it’s known as tremolite jade. Another similar variety is known as 'Witch’s Finger.' It is a variety of quartz with tremolite inclusions. When tremolite inclusions are in nephrite gemstones, they make white bands known as water lines.

Tremolite commonly occurs as an inclusion in gemstones. Interestingly it also contains inclusions, namely graphite, chlorite, or calcite. Tremolite is notoriously challenging to identify as it is easily confused with similar minerals, namely actinolite. So come along, let’s look at the mineral and wonder that is tremolite.

The Amphibole Group, Tremolite vs Actinolite

The amphibole group is a calcium-magnesium iron silicate. It forms in series with actinolite and ferroactinolite, with tremolite representing the magnesium-dominant end. On the other hand, ferroactinolite encompasses the iron-dominant end, and actinolite lies in the middle.

The difference between actinolite and tremolite lies in their composition. Tremolite contains more magnesium than iron, while actinolite has a higher iron content than magnesium. Despite this difference, actinolite and tremolite are closely related and can be challenging to distinguish. Iron can substitute some magnesium in tremolite, making its composition similar to actinolite.

Tremolite exhibits various crystal formations, including flattened or bladed crystals, fibrous, columnar, or granular aggregates. Internally, tremolite's structure is composed of thin, flexible fibers, which may be interlocked, sheaf-like, or radiating.

History of Tremolite

Tremolite has deep-rooted symbolic meanings and a fascinating history. The mineral initially bore the name "säulenspath" (German for "columnar spar") in 1782, given by Hungarian mineralogist Johann Ehrenreich von Fichtel when he discovered specimens in Transylvania, Romania.

Later, in 1789, the name "tremolite" was introduced, honoring Switzerland's Tremola Valley. The credit for this name goes to Johann Georg Albrecht Höpfner, a Swiss pharmacist and writer. Höpfner acquired his samples from a dealer who claimed they originated from Tremola Valley. However, modern scientists eventually revealed that tremolite's primary source was a dolomite marble in Campolungo, Switzerland.

In 1797, French mineralogist René Just Haüy named the entire mineral group "amphibole" after the Greek term "amphibolos," meaning "ambiguous." Haüy chose this term because the minerals within this group at that time, including tremolite, actinolite, tourmaline, and hornblende, exhibited a wide range of appearances and properties, making their classification somewhat challenging.

Tremolite in Gemstone Healing

Gemstones can be harnessed for their healing properties, influenced by their colors and internal vibrations. Tremolite is no different. Like other white crystals, it boosts spiritual awareness, purification, and the pursuit of inner peace.

On the other hand, green tremolite, akin to other green gemstones, is believed to bring luck, vitality, and balance. These green crystals are regarded as heart chakra stones, working to open the chakra for self-love and emotional openness.

Tremolite Gemstone Color

The color of tremolite gemstones typically ranges from creamy white to light green, with additional variations in gray, brown, and purple. Varieties of tremolite may also showcase hues of pink, gray, and yellow. Darker brown or gray tones are from the presence of graphite inclusions.

Green-colored tremolite owes its appearance to varying iron impurities, with higher iron content resulting in a greener coloring. However, in the case of chrome tremolite, the color is influenced by chromium, vanadium, or a combination of both.

Purple hues in hexagonite gemstones arise from manganese impurities. On the other hand, light gray or white tremolite stones have lower iron content.

Among all the colors, saturated shades are the key to their value, especially rare purple or emerald-green hues, which hold the highest value in tremolite gemstones.

Tremolite Gemstone Uses

As mentioned, faceted tremolite is rare due to the limited availability of suitable rough. Often tremolite in its natural form is incorporated into gemstone jewelry. Occasionally, cabochon cut gemstones appear in jewelry, but it is rare. Tremolite’s limited availability makes it more of a collector's item than a gemstone for jewelry.

Tremolite’s Origins and Occurrences

Tremolite gemstones occur worldwide. Notable sources include Tanzania, Kenya, Italy, Canada, Switzerland, and the United States. Tanzania is particularly renowned for producing high-quality tremolite and hexagonite specimens.

Some locations are known for certain types of tremolite. For example, New York produces the only facetable tremolite. Sierra Leone and Finland both generate chrome tremolite gemstones.

Handling and Caring for Tremolite Gemstones

Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity and beauty of tremolite gemstones. Moreover, attention to detail is critical when handling them due to their asbestos content. We recommend washing your hands after touching tremolite, especially rough specimens.

Limiting exposure to extreme temperatures and prolonged sunlight will protect the color of your tremolite and ensure its beauty lasts a lifetime. To clean your tremolite gemstones, use a soft cloth and mild soap or a special soap for cleaning gemstones.

It is essential to handle them with care to prevent any accidental damage or scratching which could lead to ingestion.

Tremolite Properties