Albite

Albite is a popular mineral composed of sodium aluminum silicate. ^[1]

Albite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Albite:

• Transparency: Albite can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, albite is triclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, albite can be pearly or vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Albite streaks white.
• Hardness: Albite's hardness ranges from 6 to 6.5 on the Moh's scale.
• Specific Gravity: Albite's specific gravity ranges from 2.57 to 2.69.

Albite: Background and Summary

Albite is a mineral that belongs to the plagioclase feldspar group. It is a white or colorless mineral that is commonly found in igneous rocks. Albite has a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.62-2.65. It is a common mineral in the Earth's crust, and can be found in many different types of rocks, including granite, syenite, andesite, and basalt.

To identify albite, one can look for its characteristic white or colorless appearance and its cleavage, which is usually quite good in two directions. It can be distinguished from other feldspars by its lower density and its lack of striations on its crystal faces. Albite can also be identified by its chemical composition, which includes sodium, aluminum, and silicon.

Albite has many uses, both industrial and ornamental. It is used as a source of aluminum in the production of ceramics, glass, and other materials. It is also used in the manufacture of some types of cement, as well as in the production of some types of fertilizer. Albite is also used as a gemstone, and is often cut and polished into cabochons or beads for use in jewelry.