Trona
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 NameTrona
Chemical FormulaNa₃(HCO₃)(CO₃)·2H₂O
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {100}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity2.13
Colorscolorless, white, gray, yellowish, brownish
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityOwens Lake, Owens Valley, Inyo County, California, USA
Mineral Groupcarbonates
Usesindustrial, chemical, food additive
Associated Mineralshalite, nahcolite, thermonatrite, natron
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a cluster of pale yellow to cream-colored Trona crystals, forming bladed to blocky habits that create a textured, crystalline mass. The crystals are translucent and exhibit a somewhat radiating growth pattern.
Geological Context
Trona is an evaporite mineral that forms in highly alkaline, saline lake environments or playas in arid regions, often from the evaporation of brines. It is a significant component of ancient lake beds and modern salt flats.
