The color of Pargasite is most commonly a vibrant green, but can also be found as brown, light yellow, and black. This mineral was first discovered in 1814 by Count Fabian Gotthard von Steinheil.

Most Hornblendes, including Pargasite, are dark and opaque, however Pargasite can also be lightly colored and transparent. Some forms of Pargasite are especially known for their electric green color and gemmy appearance.

Pargasite is the main water-storage site in the uppermost mantle; however, it becomes unstable at depths greater than 90 km (56 mi). This has significant consequences for the water storage capacity, and the solidus temperature of the lherzolite of the upper mantle.

This Pargasite gemstone guide lists qualities of the Pargasite gem type, including stone colors, common names, meanings, gemstone hardness and more.

Pargasite can be found in a wide range of rock types, both igneous and metamorphic. The largest, well-formed crystals of pargasite are known from calc-silicate rocks and marbles.

Pargasite Edenite Comments: Blocky, dark green crystals of visually indistinguishable pargasite and edenite. Location: Kolonne bei, Embilipitiya, Sri Lanka. Scale: 4.5 x 1.7 x 3.7 cm. © Fabre Minerals

Stateside, dark green and black Pargasite crystals, often well-formed, can be found in New York’s Orange County and in New Jersey’s Sussex County. Whether embedded in a white marble matrix or associated with other striking minerals, these crystals are truly a spectacle to behold.

A superb specimen of lustrous garnet var. andradite var. melanite crystals sitting on a pargasite crystals matrix from Arrondissement Diakon, Kayes Region, Mali. The melanite crystals to 15 mm are very well shaped and isolated. They are black with a sharp rhombic dodecahedral habit and a strong luster. They have pretty beveled edges.

Pargasite is a higher heart stone that aids stress & depression. Helps flow of love and compassion towards others. Boosts self esteem & feelings of happiness.

“ Black pargasite variety of hornblende with red almandine. Collected by Roy LaGrow. Rolf Luetcke specimen and photo. ”