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| The most distinctive feature of staurolite is its shape. Staurolite either forms long, prismatic crystals with the distinctive cross-section shown below or a pair of crystals ('twinned') that form a cross either as an X or a +. Each crystal making up these crosses also has the distinctive cross-section. |
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The end-view of the staurolite on top shows their typical cross-section. Sometimes the vertical sides are reduced to where a diamond cross-section results. |
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The five small specimens show two intergrown crystals forming X-shaped crosses. These are known as Saint Andrew's crosses. Plus-shaped crosses (+) are known as Roman crosses. |
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