Staurolite
Staurolite is famous for its cruciform (cross-shaped) twin crystals — called "fairy crosses" — that have been collected and worn as good luck charms for centuries. Patrick County, Virginia is the most famous locality, and fairy cross staurolite crystals have been found there for generations. President Theodore Roosevelt reportedly carried one. The crystals are found loose in stream sediments weathered out of the host schist.
Physical Properties
Chemical Formula
Fe₂Al₉O₆(SiO₄)₄(O,OH)₂
Hardness (Mohs)
7–7.5
Color
Brown, reddish-brown, yellowish-brown
Luster
Vitreous to resinous
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Streak
White to grayish
Cleavage
Imperfect
Specific Gravity
3.65–3.83
🔍 Field Identification Tips
Brown prismatic crystals, often in cross-shaped twins at 90° or 60°. Hardness 7–7.5. Found in mica schist with garnet and kyanite. The cruciform twin habit is unmistakable — no other common mineral makes natural crosses. Single crystals are prismatic with a diamond-shaped cross-section.
Varieties & Forms
📍 Where to Find Staurolite in the US
Uses & Applications
Collectors specimens — especially cruciform twins ("fairy crosses"), gemstone (rare faceted pieces).
💰 Collector Value Guide
Common single crystals: $5–$20. Fairy cross twins (Virginia): $10–$100. Perfect 90° crosses: $50–$500. Large display specimens: $100–$500.
Find Staurolite With Our Tools
Use the We Lick Rocks app to identify specimens, find dig sites, and connect with local rockhounds.