February 2025 – Staurolite

In February 2025, staurolite was chosen as our mineral of the month. Staurolite belongs to the large mineral group of silicates. It forms relatively frequently in mica schists and can therefore be found in large parts of the Alps.

Staurolite is characterised by its cross-shaped twinning. Twinning refers to the non-random intergrowth of several crystals. This cross-shaped intergrowth also gave staurolite its name – from the Greek stauros σταυρóς: cross.

Chemical formula: Fe²⁺₂Al₉Si₄O₂₃(OH)

Locality: Chibine Massif, Kola, Russia

Size: 3.5 x 8 x 8 cm

Weight: 287 g