Pectolite (Larimar)
Image: Ra'ike (see also: de:Benutzer:Ra'ike) (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NamePectolite (Larimar)
Chemical FormulaNaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH)
Mohs Hardness4.5
Crystal Systemtriclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {100}, good on {001}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity2.8
Colorsblue, white, light green
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityBarahona Province, Dominican Republic
Mineral Groupsilicates
Usesjewelry, ornamental stone, collector
Associated Mineralscalcite, hematite, natrolite, prehnite
Rarityrare
Description
This image displays a polished, tumbled stone of Larimar, showcasing its characteristic sky-blue color with white and greenish patterns, indicative of its unique composition.
Geological Context
Pectolite typically forms in cavities and fissures within basaltic and other mafic igneous rocks as a secondary mineral. Larimar, a specific variety, is found exclusively in the vugs of a basaltic lava flow.
