Chlorite identification and geology

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• Browse all mineral identification entries — Compare this entry with the complete GeoMiner minerals collection.
• Previous: Chert — Cryptocrystalline sedimentary silica. Flint is the dark variety found in chalk; both were used by early humans for tools.
• Next: Chromian Diopside — Chrome-bearing variety of diopside with vivid emerald-green color. Used as an affordable green gemstone.
• Serpentine
• Biotite
• Epidote
• Green minerals — Place this specimen in a broader field-identification workflow.

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-02-10T20:19:10.304431+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
• Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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Common questions

What is Chlorite?

Green phyllosilicate mineral group common in low-grade metamorphic rocks. Gives greenschist its characteristic color.

How can you identify Chlorite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Green, dark green; lustre: Vitreous to pearly; streak: Pale green to white; Mohs hardness: 2-2.5; cleavage: Perfect basal; crystal system: Monoclinic; transparency: Translucent to opaque. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Chlorite form?

Forms during low-grade metamorphism and hydrothermal alteration of mafic minerals like biotite and hornblende.

Where is Chlorite commonly found?

Worldwide; characteristic of greenschist facies metamorphic rocks.

What is Chlorite commonly confused with?

Chlorite may be confused with Serpentine, Biotite, Epidote. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.