Andalusite is a transparent to nearly opaque mineral often associated with metamorphic rocks. Andalusite has a vitreous characteristic, occurring in the colors pink, violet, yellow, green, white and gray, says the RRUFF Project at the University of Arizona. This mineral is widespread, being found in Spain, Austria, Brazil, Ireland, South Africa and the United States. The uses of andalusite include the production of jewelry and refractory bricks, as well as in feng shui.
Jewelry
Andalusite is a hard mineral, which makes it suitable for most jewelry uses, says the Gem Society. Andalusite's beauty is dependent on a proper cut, and it is polished, as with most gemstones. Cuts with a long axis, such as an oval cut, show more than one color. This cut often results in a lighter color in the center and a darker color near the ends. If the stone has a square or round cut, the colors blend into a mosaic pattern.
Refractory Products
According to the U.S. Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration in "Industrial Minerals & Rocks: Commodities, Markets, and Uses," a large majority of andalusite extracted in the world today is used in the industry of refractory bricks. Andalusite's properties of high temperature volume stability, mechanical strength, thermal shock resistance and creep resistance, also makes the mineral suitable for using in the metallurgical industry, says the Journal of Minerals & Materials Characterization & Engineering.
Feng Shui
Feng shui is an ancient Chinese system that uses astronomy and other knowledge to create harmony and energy-balanced environments. Feng shui uses many elements, including gemstones. According to author Sandra Kynes in "Gemstone Feng Shui: Creating Harmony in Home & Office," andalusite represents earth in feng shui and can be placed in the northeast, center and southwest of a room. Kynes also recommends to place andalusite nearby a stove and in the rear garden.
Tags: feng shui, Feng Shui, refractory bricks