majite

Majite is a mineral belonging to the spinel group, with the chemical formula MgAl2O4. It is a magnesium aluminum oxide and is the pure magnesium endmember of the spinel series. In its pure form, majite is colorless and transparent, but impurities can lead to a variety of colors, including brown, green, and yellow. It is a relatively hard mineral, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, and has a vitreous luster.

Majite is an isometric mineral, crystallizing in the hexoctahedral class. It is typically found as granular masses or as octahedral crystals. It is an accessory mineral found in various geological settings. It commonly occurs in metamorphosed limestones and dolomites where it forms through contact metamorphism. It can also be found in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks, such as peridotites and serpentinites, as well as in some metamorphic rocks like gneisses.

While not as widely known or commercially significant as some other gem minerals, majite can be found in some jewelry applications when it occurs in desirable colors and clarity. However, its primary importance is in mineralogical studies and as an indicator of metamorphic conditions. It is found in several locations worldwide, including parts of Italy, Austria, and the United States.