Pectolite
| Colour | White, Gray |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 4.5 – 5 |
| Lustre | Silky, subvitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Triclinic |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {100} and {001} |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Chemical formula | NaCa 2 Si 3 O 8 (OH) |
| Specific gravity | 2.84 – 2.90 |
What is Pectolite?
Pectolite is a white to gray mineral, NaCa2Si3O8(OH), a sodium calcium hydroxide inosilicate. It crystallizes in the triclinic system typically occurring in radiated or fibrous crystalline masses. It has a Mohs hardness of 4.5 to 5 and a specific gravity of 2.7 to 2.9. A highly sought-after variety known as larimar, is a pale to sky blue. There is also a whitish form of the mineral from Alaska that is sometimes marketed as 'Alaska jade'.
How to identify Pectolite
- Lustre: Silky, subvitreous.
- Hardness: Mohs 4.5 – 5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Triclinic crystal system.
Pectolite in different forms
Stones often confused with Pectolite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Pectolite?
Pectolite is Mohs 4.5 – 5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Pectolite?
Pectolite is typically white, gray (Colorless, whitish, grayish, yellowish).