TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Titanita

Titanita is a mineral with formula CaTiSiO₅, in the Silicatos (Nesosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Albatera, Alicante, Valencia, España.

Titanita from Albatera, Alicante, Valencia, España — Terrium

Description

Good brown sphene crystal and several more small crystals on a clinozoisite matrix

About Titanita

Capable of dating episodes of fluid circulation, metamorphism, or crystallization through the uranium-lead system, titanite acts as a valuable, tiny geological clock. Yet, beyond this scientific utility, this calcium-titanium nesosilicate also stands out for its undeniable aesthetic appeal, being easily recognizable by its characteristic flat, sharp, and often leaf-like crystals.

About the locality

Classic Spanish locality for titanite on a clinozoisite-epidote matrix. The deposit is linked to dark mafic rocks, visible as a strongly contrasting outcrop near the Sierra de Crevillente. Its titanites are usually valued above all for their local provenance.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0599
Internal reference
X0299
Composition
CaTiSiO₅
Name
Titanita
Group
Silicatos (Nesosilicatos)
Matrix
Gran matriz de Clinosoizita
District / Municipality
Albatera
Province
Alicante
Region
Valencia
Country
España
Etymology
Named for its titanium content; the older name “sphene” comes from the Greek «sphen», “wedge”.
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

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