Wollastonite identification and geology

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• Previous: Wolframite (Hübnerite) — Manganese-dominant end member of the wolframite series. Forms reddish-brown translucent crystals.
• Next: Wulfenite — Lead molybdate forming thin, brilliantly colored tabular crystals. One of the most colorful and prized collector minerals.
• Tremolite
• Sillimanite
• Pectolite

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

2026-03-30T14:36:54.974341+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 Wollastonite?

Calcium inosilicate forming white tabular or fibrous crystals. Important industrial mineral used in ceramics and plastics.

How can you identify Wollastonite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: White, gray; lustre: Vitreous to pearly; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 4.5-5; cleavage: Perfect in two directions; crystal system: Triclinic; transparency: Translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Wollastonite form?

Forms by contact metamorphism of siliceous limestones at high temperatures.

Where is Wollastonite commonly found?

USA New York , Finland, India, China; found in skarns and contact metamorphic zones.

What is Wollastonite commonly confused with?

Wollastonite may be confused with Tremolite, Sillimanite, Pectolite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.