Amphibolite Meaning and Properties
Amphibolite History
Amphibolite—sometimes also referred to as hornblende—is a metamorphic rock that contains amphibole minerals (hence its name) and feldspars. This dark and heavy rock comes in both banded and crystal forms and can contain a range of other gemstones and materials.
In antiquity, amphibolite was carved into sculptures. Today, this durable material is commonly used in cemetery markers, commemorative tables and public art. Depending on its specific mineralogical makeup, amphibolite can be rough and pitted or shiny and smooth to the touch. Harder than limestone and heavier than granite, amphibolite is quarried, planed and polished for use in exterior building cladding or internal décor as countertops and flooring.
Amphibolite is heat-, pressure- and wear-resistant. These resistances are why it is frequently crushed and laid down as a base during roadway construction.
What are the Metaphysical Properties of Amphibolite?
Amphibolite is named after its own ambiguous nature. Even as hornblende, it combines duality: "horn" for its color and "blenden" (German for "deceiver," due to its similarity to metal ores). Amphibolite meaning involves uncertainty.
Amphibolite's dual nature makes it an ideal stone for those working on balancing their own dual natures: peaceful warriors, two-spirit embodiments, etc. Amphibolite meaning also includes the perceived ability to shield and insulate from abrasiveness of human interaction and release the need for judgmentalism.
What is Amphibolite Made From?
This common metamorphic rock is found around the world, with variable chemical makeups from deposit to deposit. It originally begins as an igneous rock such as basalt, although all original materials cannot be determined due to the metamorphic process. During this process, the base material is exposed to water-borne minerals, which combine to form the new rock.
Amphibolite (or hornblende) can also be found as inclusions in moss agate , dendritic agate and zoisite . Amphibolite is commonly found in areas where mountains have formed. Deposits have been found on every continent except Antarctica.
- Mineral Information: May, but not always will, contain amphibole, andalusite, biotite, calcite, epidote, garnet, hornblende, kyanite, magnetite, olivine, plagioclase, pyroxene, staurolite and/or wollastonite
- Chemical Composition: (Ca,Na)2-3(Mg,Fe+2 to +3,Al)5, Si6(Al,Si)2O22(OH,F)2 (composition can vary)
- Color: Coarse-grained black with brown, green and grey
- Hardness: 6 to 7 (Mohs)
- Specific Gravity: 2.5
- Refractive Index: 0.019 to 1.701 (indices increase with iron content)
How Do You Clean Amphibolite?
Amphibolite has no cleaning restrictions. Its hardness and toughness mean it can damage other materials it is strung with, so always store amphibolite in a soft bag.
Amphibolite FAQ
Q: Where does the name amphibolite come from?
A: The name “amphibolite” comes from one of its constituent materials, amphibole, which in turn gets its name from the Greek word αμφιβολος (amphibolos), which means double entendre, referring to the ambiguous composition of this mineral.
Q: Where is amphibolite found?
A: Amphibolite is found all over the world, on every continent except Antarctica.
Q: Is this stone really used in jewelry?
A: Though more commonly used in construction, amphibolite is also fashioned into beads, drops, focals and other unique jewelry components.
Q: What other ways is this stone used?
A: Amphibolite has a wide range of practical uses. It is commonly quarried and crushed for use in roadbeds, railroad ballast and construction fill. Its durability and dark, attractive appearance also make it suitable for curbs, paving stones, building facings, cemetery headstones, plaques, interior tiles and countertops—being sold as “black granite.” In ancient times, amphibolite was used to craft artifacts such as tools, sculptures and figurines.
Q: Is amphibolite considered eco-friendly or sustainable?
A: Amphibolite is considered a sustainable natural resource due to its abundance and longevity. Its hardness and durability make it low maintenance, reducing the need for frequent replacement or repair.
Designing with Amphibolite
This dark material can be used in every kind of jewelry. Its durability and wear-resistance make it ideal for men's jewelry , and for pieces such as anklets, bracelets and rings (where jewelry can be knocked about). Some amphibolite shows small cavities native to the stone, giving a mixed texture that adds subtle visual interest to jewelry made with it.
Amphibolite's hardness and durability mean it can damage softer materials long before facing any wear itself, so be sure to knot or space between this stone and others. Not recommended for stringing with pearls, malachite, turquoise or other soft stones.
**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
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