Information about Aerinite

Aerinite is a rare, strikingly blue to blue-green mineral that typically forms as fibrous, massive, or vein-like aggregates.

It is often found within cavities of igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in association with zeolites. Its vibrant colour and fibrous texture make it a visually distinct mineral, often resembling azurite or other blue minerals.

The name “aerinite” is derived from the Greek word aerinos, meaning “sky-coloured,” in reference to its deep blue hue.

Uses and History

Aerinite has no significant industrial applications due to its rarity, but it has been historically used as a blue pigment in ancient Spanish frescoes. Its intense coloration made it a valuable natural pigment before synthetic alternatives became available.

Nowadays, aerinite is a collector’s mineral, prized for its unique colour and association with rare geological environments.

Aerinite was first described in 1876 from a specimen found in Aragon, Spain. It gained historical significance due to its use in medieval fresco paintings, particularly in Romanesque art from the Pyrenees region, where it was applied as a stable blue pigment.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aerinite
• https://www.mindat.org/min-34.html
• http://webmineral.com/data/Aerinite.shtml
• https://handbookofmineralogy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Aerinite.pdf