Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
tricliniccommonSilicates
Anorthite
CaAl₂Si₂O₈
The image displays a cluster of blocky, whitish to grayish, translucent anorthite crystals, showing characteristic cleavage faces.
Anorthite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
6Crystal System
triclinicLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
Perfect on {001} and {010}, good on {110} and {110} at nearly 90 degreesFracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
2.76Colors
white, gray, colorless, reddishTransparency
transparentType Locality
Monte Somma, Somma-Vesuvius Complex, Naples Province, Campania, ItalyMineral Group
SilicatesUses
scientific, ceramic, minor aluminum oreAssociated Minerals
pyroxenes, olivine, amphiboles, magnetiteRarity
commonGeological Context
Anorthite is a common rock-forming mineral found in mafic igneous rocks such as gabbro and basalt, and also in some high-grade metamorphic rocks. It crystallizes from magma and lava.
