Andalusite

Andalusite is actually the same mineral as Kyanite however their atomic structure is arranged differently, in the same way glass and Quartz are both silica however glass is not a crystal and is an electric insulator and Quartz is a crystal and is an electric conductor. Kyanite is in the orthorhobic crystal system and Andalusite is in the triclinic system.

They come in a range of colors and have incredible pleochroism, meaning diffeent colors can be seen when viewed at different angles of the gem. Andalusite is also known for its chiastolite, a very unique cross shape inclusion that consist of graphite and clay minerals like Kaolinite and Illite, which are too large to be incorporated into the crystal like most gems. Therefore the inclusions get pushed aside during growth causing its cross patterns. If you want a unique gem that tells a story like a scar on a body, this is the gem to buy

Hardness: 7 – 7.5
Composition: Al₂SiO₅