Albite
| Colour | White, Clear, Gray |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 6–6.5 |
| Lustre | Vitreous, typically pearly on cleavages |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Triclinic |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {001}, very good on {010}, imperfect on {110} |
| Fracture | Uneven to conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | (ideal endmember) (Na:Ca = 100:0 to 90:10) |
| Specific gravity | 2.60–2.65 |
What is Albite?
Albite is a plagioclase feldspar mineral. It is the sodium endmember of the plagioclase solid solution series. It represents a plagioclase with less than 10% anorthite content. The pure albite endmember has the formula NaAlSi3O8. It is a tectosilicate. Its color is usually pure white, hence its name from Latin, albus. It is a common constituent in felsic rocks.
How to identify Albite
- Lustre: Vitreous, typically pearly on cleavages.
- Hardness: Mohs 6–6.5 — about as hard as a steel knife.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Triclinic crystal system.
Albite in different forms
Stones often confused with Albite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Albite?
Albite is Mohs 6–6.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Albite?
Albite is typically white, clear, gray (White to gray, blueish, greenish, reddish; may be chatoyant).