RockVault
Gmelinite-Na

Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="http://www.mindat.org/user-2830.html#0">John Sobolewski</a> (JSS) (CC BY 3.0)

hexagonaluncommonSilicates (Zeolite Group)

Gmelinite-Na

(Na2,Ca,K2)Al2Si4O12·6H2O

A mass of pink, hexagonal gmelinite-Na crystals, some associated with delicate white natrolite needles.

Gmelinite-Na Physical Properties

Mohs Hardness

4.5

Crystal System

hexagonal

Luster

vitreous

Streak Color

white

Cleavage

distinct on {1010}

Fracture

uneven

Specific Gravity

2.1

Colors

pink, white, colorless, yellow, reddish, brownish

Transparency

transparent

Type Locality

Flinders area, Victoria, Australia

Mineral Group

Silicates (Zeolite Group)

Uses

collector, industrial (as a zeolite)

Associated Minerals

natrolite, calcite, apophyllite, other zeolites

Rarity

uncommon

Geological Context

Gmelinite-Na is a zeolite mineral typically found in the cavities of basaltic and other volcanic rocks, forming as a secondary mineral during hydrothermal alteration.