AllMineralsRock
Pectolite
Pectolite is a popular mineral composed of sodium calcium silicate. [1]
Pectolite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Pectolite:- Transparency: Pectolite can be translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, pectolite is triclinic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, pectolite can be silky or vitreous (glassy).
- Streak: Pectolite streaks white.
- Specific Gravity: Pectolite's specific gravity ranges from 2.7 to 2.9.
Pectolite: Background and Summary
Pectolite is a mineral that belongs to the silicate family, specifically the zeolite group. It is commonly found in volcanic rocks and is often associated with other minerals such as calcite, quartz, and zeolites. Pectolite is usually white or gray in color, but it can also be found in shades of blue, green, and brown. It has a vitreous to pearly luster and a hardness of 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale.To identify pectolite, one can perform a few simple tests. First, it is important to note the color and luster of the mineral. Pectolite is usually white or gray with a vitreous to pearly luster. Next, one can determine the hardness of the mineral by testing it with a Mohs hardness kit. Pectolite has a hardness of 4.5 to 5. Finally, one can perform a streak test by rubbing the mineral on a piece of unglazed porcelain or a streak plate. Pectolite will leave a white streak.
Pectolite has several uses in industry and manufacturing. It is often used as a filler in plastics, paints, and coatings due to its light weight and low cost. It is also used in the production of ceramics and glass. In addition, pectolite is used in the jewelry industry as a gemstone. Its attractive blue and green varieties are particularly popular.
Pectolite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Pectolite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent |
| Chemical Formula | NaCa2Si3O8(OH) |
| Chemical Composition | sodium calcium silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 2.7, 2.9 |
| Streak | white |
| Crystallography | triclinic |
| Hydrous | Yes |
| Colors | common: yellow sometimes: blue, gray, brown, white less common: pink, black, orange, salmon, colorless |
| Category | inosilicate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.037 |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Pectolite: FAQ
Q: Is pectolite a rare mineral?A: Pectolite is not considered a rare mineral, but it is not commonly found in large quantities.
Q: Where is pectolite found?
A: Pectolite is found in many locations around the world, including Canada, the United States, Italy, and the Dominican Republic.
Q: What is the difference between blue and white pectolite?
A: Blue pectolite is often referred to as "Larimar" and is found exclusively in the Dominican Republic. It is prized for its unique blue color and is often used in jewelry. White pectolite is more common and is found in many locations around the world.
Sources
- Mindat.org- Geology.com
- Gem Society
- Pectolite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pectolite
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