Heuland

Heuland is a mineral belonging to the silicate group, specifically a sorosilicate. Its chemical formula is CaAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2. Heuland occurs in metamorphic rocks, often found in association with minerals like garnet, epidote, and amphibole. It is typically found in contact metamorphic zones and schists.

The mineral is characterized by its monoclinic crystal system and usually appears as prismatic or columnar crystals. Heuland can exhibit a range of colors, including white, gray, pink, and pale green. It has a vitreous luster and a hardness of approximately 5 on the Mohs scale. The specific gravity of Heuland is around 3.25.

Heuland was first described in 1847 and named in honor of the English mineralogist Henry Heuland. While not a particularly common mineral, it is of interest to mineral collectors and geologists studying metamorphic processes. It can be found in various locations worldwide, including parts of the United States, Switzerland, and Japan. Its geological significance lies in its formation under specific metamorphic conditions, providing clues about the pressure and temperature history of the rocks in which it is found.