Chabazite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameChabazite
Chemical FormulaCaAl2Si4O12·6H2O
Mohs Hardness4.5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagedistinct on {1011}
Fractureuneven to conchoidal
Specific Gravity2.1
Colorswhite, colorless, pink, yellow, red, green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityUpper New Street Quarry (Burger's Quarry), Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey, USA
Mineral GroupSilicates (Zeolite Group)
Usesion exchange, molecular sieves, collector's specimens
Associated MineralsHeulandite, stilbite, analcime, calcite, quartz
Raritycommon
Description
The image displays a cluster of blocky, pseudo-cubic, white to off-white Chabazite crystals, exhibiting a translucent quality and vitreous luster. These crystals are intergrown with other minerals, likely Heulandite, forming an attractive specimen.
Geological Context
Chabazite typically forms in the amygdaloidal cavities and fractures of basaltic volcanic rocks, often as a secondary mineral from the alteration of volcanic glass or feldspars. It is a common zeolite found in low-temperature hydrothermal environments.
