Kyanite is a deep blue, elongated crystal.

Chemical Formula: Al2SiO5
Class: Silicate Mesosillicates
Hardness: 4.5-7
Coloration: Blue, Green, sometimes colorless

How to identify it/Unique Characteristics or Properties: Kyanite is a deep blue, elongated crystal whose hardness level changes drastically depending on which side of the crystal you test. Lengthwise it is much softer than across the end of it.

Where to find it in…

The Northwest: N/A
Other: North Carolina USA, Brazil, Switzerland
Past Uses: Has a variety of ceramic uses, including in porcelain sinks/tubs, and spark plugs. sometimes very nice pieces are used in beads and jewelry.
Other Forms: There are two other minerals with the same chemical composition: kyanite, andalusite, and sillimanite. Kyanite is formed at high pressure, andalusite at low pressure, and sillimanite at high temperature.
Interesting Facts: Unlike most minerals, kyanite expands when it is heated, whereas most things contract.