Baddeleyite

Introduction: Baddeleyite was first discovered by Joseph Baddeley in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) in 1890. This mineral is of great economic importance. The shiny black crystals are found in a fairly rare zirconium-bearing mineral.

Distribution: A dolomite south of Luderitz contains some baddeleyite crystals.

Composition: Oxide

Crystal system: Monoclinic

Lustre: Vitreous/greasy

Streak: White to white/brown

Hardness: 6.5