Petalite
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)
Mineral NamePetalite
Chemical FormulaLiAlSi4O10
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {001}, distinct on {201}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.4
Colorswhite, pale pink, gray, colorless
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityShengus (Shingus), Haramosh Mts., Skardu District, Baltistan, Northern Areas, Pakistan
Mineral GroupSilicates
Useslithium source, ceramics, gemstone, collector
Associated Mineralsspodumene, lepidolite, tourmaline, quartz, feldspar
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen is a chunky, translucent mass of petalite, exhibiting a pale off-white to light beige color with an irregular, somewhat blocky form.
Geological Context
Petalite typically forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites, often associated with other lithium-bearing minerals. It crystallizes from late-stage hydrothermal fluids.
