AllMineralsRock
Natrolite
Natrolite is a popular mineral composed of sodium aluminium silicate. [1]
Natrolite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Natrolite:- Transparency: Natrolite can be translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, natrolite is orthorhombic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, natrolite can be pearly, silky or vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Natrolite streaks colorless.
- Specific Gravity: Natrolite's specific gravity ranges from 2.2 to 2.3.
Natrolite: Background and Summary
Natrolite is a type of mineral that belongs to the zeolite family. It is a colorless or white mineral that is often found in fibrous or needle-like structures. Natrolite has a hardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.2 to 2.3. It is a hydrated sodium and aluminum silicate mineral that has a chemical formula of Na2Al2Si3O10·2H2O.One of the best ways to identify natrolite is by its fibrous or needle-like structure. It is also commonly found in association with other zeolite minerals such as heulandite, stilbite, and scolecite. Natrolite has a vitreous luster and is often transparent or translucent. It is also known to fluoresce under ultraviolet light.
Natrolite is widely used in the glass and ceramics industry due to its unique properties. It is used as a filler in ceramics and as a fluxing agent in glass production. Natrolite is also used in the production of detergents, water softeners, and other household products. It is also used as a gemstone and is often cut into cabochons or used as a decorative stone.
Natrolite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Natrolite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent |
| Chemical Formula | Na2Al2Si3O10· 2H2O |
| Chemical Composition | sodium aluminium silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.2, 2.3 |
| Streak | colorless |
| Crystallography | orthorhombic |
| Hydrous | Yes |
| Colors | common: white sometimes: gray, brown, yellow less common: pink, orange, colorless |
| Category | tectosilicates |
Natrolite: FAQ
Q: Where is natrolite found?A: Natrolite is found in many locations around the world including the United States, Canada, Russia, Norway, and Italy.
Q: Is natrolite toxic?
A: No, natrolite is not toxic and is safe for use in household products.
Q: How is natrolite formed?
A: Natrolite is formed through the alteration of volcanic rocks and can also be found in hydrothermal veins.
Sources
- Mindat.org - Natrolite- Geology.com - Natrolite
- Natrolite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natrolite
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