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Epidote
 

	Epidote is best known among mineral collectors for its unique “pistachio” green color, which is quite striking in well-colored specimens. The mineral is even called Pistacite for its color.
	The name Epidote is from the Greek “Epidosis” meaning “Addition” or “Increase”. This may refer to the fact that some of the mineral's crystal faces are longer than others.
	As well as pistachio green, Epidote is also found in brownish green, black, yellow or gray.
	Composed of Calcium Aluminum Iron Silicate Hydroxide, [Ca2 (Al, Fe) 3(SiO4) 3(OH)], Epidote ranks 6 to 7 on the Moh’s Scale of Hardness with a Specific Gravity of 3.3 to 3.5.

Epidote is an extremely rare collector’s gem. Despite its hardness and deep color, Epidote is not commonly cut and polished as a precious gem because the crystals rarely are clear or large enough to facet. Thus, gem quality specimens are highly prized.
 

One of the most interesting locations for Epidote is the appropriately named Green Monster Mountain in Alaska. This privately owned and operated source produces splendid crystal specimens that are snapped up by private collectors and museums alike, the world over. Epidote is also found in India, Sri Lanka and Brazil.