Staurolite is a silica mineral that occurs as dark brown to black six-sided crystals. Staurolite frequently forms as penetration twins (two crystals intersecting). Our staurolites are locally sourced here in Taos county where they can be found in micaceous schist. Taos staurolites often contain inclusions of tiny red garnets.
Chemical composition: Fe2+2Al9Si4O23(OH); Hardness: 7-7.5