Kyanite

Kyanite

The mineral Kyanite is a metamorphic mineral. It usually forms from high pressure alterations of clay-rich sedimentary rocks. It is mostly used in the railroad industry where heat resistance is important, as well as dentures, sinks, and bathroom fixtures. The United States uses an astounding 90,000 tons of Kyanite a year estimate to be $13.4 million.

There are many sources for kyanite in the United States such as Idaho and the Appalachian mountain region. Also, this mineral can be found in South Africa, France, Brazil, Austria, Switzerland, Zimbabwe, Kenya and India from where it can be imported into the Unites States. It is extracted through mining, but because of current economic conditions it is not worth mining kyanite until they change. This mineral is not rare but there are substitutes for kyanite, including high-alumina materials, fire clays, and a product called synthetic mullite.

By: Cammie

Works Cited “Kyanite Mineral Uses and Properties.” //Geology.com//. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2012. Potter, Michael J. “Kyanite and Related Materials.” //Kyanite and Related Materials//. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2012. "Kyanite Gemstone Information." //Gem Select//. 02 Sept. 2006. Web. 23 Feb. 2012. Mineral Photos - Kyanite." //Mineral Information Institute//. 2012. Web. 23 Feb. 2012.