Bronzite
Bronzite is an iron-rich variety of enstatite, a mineral of the pyroxene group. It is usually brown to dark greenish-brown and shows a metallic, bronze-like sheen on its surfaces, which gives the stone its name. This sheen (known as schiller) is caused by very thin films of iron oxide that have formed along tiny cracks and cleavage planes inside the stone, reflecting light like a metallic layer.
Bronzite is found in igneous rocks such as norite and peridotite, and in some meteorites. Sources include Austria, Germany, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, Norway, South Africa and the USA. It is usually cut as cabochons, beads and tumbled stones, which show its sheen best, and it is sometimes carved into small ornaments. A fibrous structure can occasionally produce a cat's-eye effect.
Bronzite is often confused with other brown stones with a metallic sheen. Hypersthene is a closely related pyroxene that is darker and has a stronger sheen. Bronzite should not be confused with "bronzite" or "bronze" coated beads, nor with gold sheen obsidian or tiger's eye, which have different properties. Bronzite is generally untreated.
Bronzite at a glance
| Colour | Brown, greenish-brown, dark brown with bronze metallic sheen |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 5 – 6 |
| Composition | Magnesium iron silicate (pyroxene) |
| Crystal structure | Orthorhombic; usually massive |
| Lustre | Sub-metallic to pearly; bronze sheen |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Where it is found | Austria, Germany, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, Norway, South Africa and USA |
Caring for bronzite
Bronzite (5 – 6 on the Mohs scale) has good cleavage and can scratch, chip or split if knocked. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then dry. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, harsh chemicals and high heat. Store it separately from harder gems in a soft pouch.
In folklore
The beliefs below are traditional folklore, included for interest. They are not scientifically proven, and nothing here is medical advice.
Bronzite has little ancient folklore, but in modern tradition it is known as a "stone of courtesy", said to encourage harmony and respect between people. It is also considered a grounding stone that helps the wearer take control of their life. Bronzite is associated with the zodiac sign Leo.
Bronzite is traditionally regarded as a stone of courtesy, self-assurance and protection. Crystal healing lore holds that it restores confidence and inner strength, helps the wearer stay calm and decisive under pressure, and is said to protect against negative energy by sending it back to its source. It is linked to the root and solar plexus chakras.
Related stones
Enstatite, hypersthene, diopside and other pyroxenes. Stones with a similar sheen include tiger's eye, gold sheen obsidian, hematite, smoky quartz and goldstone.
For the technically minded
| Scientific name | (Mg,Fe)SiO3 |
|---|---|
| Density | 3.20 – 3.40 |
| Refractive index | 1.665 – 1.680 |
| Double refraction | 0.01 |
| Cleavage | Good in two directions |
| Streak | Greyish-white |
| Fluorescence | None |