Okenite

Okenite
Okenite

Okenite
General
Category silicate
Chemical formula CaSi2O5·2H2O
Crystal symmetry triclinic
Identification
Color white to slightly yellow, blue
Cleavage perfect on {001}
Mohs scale hardness 4½-5
Luster vitreous, pearly
Diaphaneity transparent, translucent
Specific gravity 2.28 - 2.33

Okenite (CaSi2O5·2H2O)[1] is a silicate mineral that is usually associated with zeolites. It most commonly is found as small white "cotton ball" formations within basalt geodes. These formations are clusters of straight, radiating, fibrous crystals that are both bendable and fragile.[2] Other minerals associated with okenite include apophyllite, gyrolite, prehnite, chalcedony, goosecreekite and many of the other zeolites.

It was first described in 1828 for an occurrence at Disko Island, Greenland and named for German naturalist Lorenz Oken (1779-1851).[3]

Occurrence

Okenite is largely found in India, mainly within the state of Maharashtra. Other localities include Bulla Island, Azerbaijan; Aranga, New Zealand; Chile; Ireland and Bordo Island in the Faroe Islands.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b http://www.mindat.org/min-2967.html Mindat
  2. ^ http://www.galleries.com/minerals/silicate/okenite/okenite.htm
  3. ^ http://webmineral.com/data/Okenite.shtml Webmineral
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