The hiddenite is a variety of spodumene that has only been found in one
locality, namely, Alexander County, North Carolina. This mineral was
discovered by W. E. Hidden, and has been named after him.
The hiddenite is perfectly transparent, and varies from a pale
yellowish- to a deep emerald-green, being very brilliant, and
approaching the emerald in color. As this stone is rarely found large
enough for cutting into gems, it is highly prized, and good specimens
command a large price.
The hardness of the hiddenite is 6.5 to 7, and specific gravity 3.13
to 3.19; before the blow-pipe it melts to a clear glass, and it is
attacked by salts of phosphorus. It is composed of:
Silica 64.35
Alumina 26.58
Lithia 7.05
with traces of iron and soda.