Kyanite (Al2SiO5) is an aluminosilicate that principally occurs as elongated, flattened blades. Kyanite is formed during metamorphism of clay-rich sediments. It is a major raw material for the aluminum silicate mullite, which is used in spark plugs and heat-resistant porcelains. Gem occurrences include Brazil, Switzerland, and North Carolina.


Its name is derived from the Greek kyanos, meaning "dark blue," in allusion to its color. Kyanite's former name, disthene (meaning "two strengths") refers to its characteristic variable hardness; when scratched along one axis, its hardness is 4 ½, but when scratched perpendicular to that, its hardness is 6.


Metaphysically Known For: Inner bridges, psychic ability, connecting with Nature, past life recall, telepathy, empathy