MINERAL COLOR FORM CLEAVAGE TWINNING RELIEF BIREFRINGENCE INTERFERENCE ORIENTATION DISTINGUISHING OCCURRENCE OTHERS

FIGURE FEATURE

GROUP 1 | Wilbern Blitz Paeste, Aaron Pioquinto, Jona Elaine Kis-ing, Jako Ace Tuzon, Rurik Austria

ELEMENT GROUP

Sulfur Yellow, Fine grained (001), (110), On {101}{011}{110} Extremely high in Very high, nγ- None. Dispersion, r < None Melts at 112.8 ° Usually formed from volcanic Acrid odor (forms
S straw to aggregates to (111) rare low-index nβ=0,287 v action - as a sublimate from sulphurous and
Orthorhombic honey crystalline masses, imperfect amounts volcanic gasses associated with eventually
nα = 1.958 yellow, large crystals may realgar, cinnabar and others. It sulphuric acid in
nβ =2.038 yellowish form. is also found in some vein air).
nγ =2.245 gray. May deposits and as an alteration
Transparent to be dark product of sulphide minerals. It
opaque gray when can also be formed biogenically
impure. It - a major source being salt
is domes, where it has formed by
pleochroic the bacterial decomposition of
. calcium sulfate. Associated with
gypsum and limestone in
Tertiary sedimentary rocks. It
may occur in cap rcok about salt
domes.
Graphite Black with It occurs as thin Perfect None None None None None It is found as the gray The mineral is characteristic of Graphite may
C metallic flakes or {0001} color in most metamorphic rocks such as from from
Hexagonal luster in disseminated scales. metamorphic limestone schist, gneiss, slates and carbonaceous
Opaque reflected The crystals are rocks. metamorphic limestones. matter.
light. tabular.
GOLD Rich Usually crude to None Common on (111) None None None None it is found as a native Gold occurs in significant
Au yellow, rounded octahedra, observed to give herring bone element, has a relatively amounts in three main types of
Isometric paling to cubes and twins. Repeated on low melting point (1063 deposits: hydrothermal quartz
Opaque whitish- dodecahedra to 2 (111) to give stacks degrees Celsius) and veins and related deposits in
yellow cm. reticulated; of spinel twins that is malleable. metamorphic and igneous
with dendritic; form hexagonal rocks; in volcanic-exhalative
increasing arborescent; filiform; wires sulphide deposits; and in
silver; spongy; also massive consolidated to unconsolidated
blue & in rounded placer deposits. It may also
green in fragments, flattened occur in contact metamorphic
transmitte grains and scales or hypothermal deposits (eg.
d light. (gold dust). Skarns), or epithermal deposits
such as volcanic fumaroles. It is
most commonly found as
disseminated grains in Quartz
veins with Pyrite and other
sulphides, or as rounded grains,
flakes or nuggets in placer
deposits in recent to ancient
stream and river deposits.
SULFIDES

Sphalerite It forms It forms rhombic Perfect {111} None None None None Dissolves in hydrochloric It is a common and widely It is associated
(Zn,Fe)S clear dodecahedron, Perfect {011} acid, producing a distributed mineral in veins and with pyrite,
Isometric crystals tetrahedron and sulfurous, rotten-egg replacement deposits. galena, marcasite
n= 2.37-2.47 with combinations of odor. and the gangue
Transparent to colours these having cubic minerals: quartz,
opaque ranging and tristetrahedron chalcedony,
from pale faces giving the
 yellow to crystals multiple calcite, dolomite,
orange faces of often and siderite.
and red indistinct forms.
shades Massive forms are
but as common and can be
iron granular, earthy,
content botryoidal,
increases concretionary and
it forms fibrous.
dark,
opaque
metallic
crystals. It
forms
very rare
green
crystals.
Pyrite Yellowish Pyrite can form in {100} Poor, Rare None None None None Commonly forms as
FeS2 gray to extremely well- {110} Poor euhedral crystals. Pyrite
Isometric gray. crystallized examples crystals are frequently
Opaque Some of cubes, striated.
specimen pyritohedrons, and
s oxidize octahedrons.
and form Combinations of
a yellow- these forms also
brown or occur. Pyrite crystals
iridescent frequently form
film on penetration
exposed twinning, especially
crystal in the cubic form.
faces. Also occurs massive,
radiating, grainy,
flaky, drusy,
mammilary,
encrusting, nodular,
tuberose, fibrous, in
concretions, and as
groups of small
crystals.
Arsenopyrite Silver- Flat tabular to blocky 110 (distinct) Common on {100} None None None None It gives off garlic odor High temperature ore veins,
FeAsS white to (sometimes pseudo- and {001}. Contact when struck pegmatites, and contact
Monoclinic steel-gray. octahedral) to or penetration on metamorphic rocks. Rarely in
Opaque Tarnishes prismatic. {101}, on {012} igneous basalt rocks.
dark gray, trillings or
but cruciform.
occasional
ly also an
iridescent
pink and
yellow.
Pyrrhotite bronze Grains and Parting on {0001}, Twinning: On N/A N/A N/A Mainly in mafic igneous rocks,
red, or Irregular distinct {1012} typically as magmatic
Fe1-xS dark Masses segregations; also in
brown; pegmatites, and in high-
Hexagonal opaque temperature hydrothermal and
replacement veins, and in
sedimentary and
metamorphic rocks; in iron
meteorites.

Chalcopyrite Brass- Anhedral Poor on {011} and Twin plane {112}, N/A N/A N/A A primary mineral in
yellow; grains, veinlets {111} composition hydrothermal veins, stockworks,
CuFeS2 opaque and euhedral surface commonly disseminations, and massive
grains {112}; twin plane replacements; an exsolution
Tetragonal {012} product in mafic igneous rocks;
of sedimentary origin controlled
by
redox conditions.
Molybdenite Lead-gray, Thin veinlets, Perfect parallel to N/A N/A N/A Occurs along with scheelite in a
but white isolated flakes (0001) garnet-bearing contact
MoS2 in in granite rocks metamorphic deposit.
polished
Hexagonal sections;
nearly
opaque
Halite Colorless Anhedral Perfect cubic Very low Nil. Dark bet. Crossed N/A Very low relief, cubic Occurs in sedimentary beds of
NaCl crystals nicols cleavage and solubility rock salt that are often
N=1.544 accompanied by anhydrite and
Isometric gypsum

HALIDES

Fluorite Colorless It’s sometimes Perfect octahedral Fairly high, n < Nil. Dark between N/A High relief, perfect Found in some granites,
or purple found in balsam crossed polars cleavage, and isotropic sandstones, limestones and
CaF2 in bands euhdral crystals character distinguish phosphorites.
or spots with outline but fluorite from all other
N=1.434 usually minerals.
anhedral and
Isometric fill the spaces
of other
crystals.
OXIDES

Periclase colorless High, n>balsam Nil. Dark between N/A Cubic cleavage, high Metamorphic limestones. Cores
Perfect cubic in 1 crossed polars relief, and isotropic w/in brucite spots are formed
MgO direction character. by hydration of the periclase.
N=1.738 – 1.760

Isometric
Corundum Colorless Euhedral Parting often Twinning lamellae Very high, n > Weak, nω - nε = Uniaxial (-) Sections of the combination of very Corundum is especially
when crystals parallel to the unit or twin seams w/ balsam 0.008-0.009 tabular crystals high relief w/ weak characteristics of syenites,
Al2O3 pure of rhombohedron {1011} as the twin- are length-slow, birefringence, parting, contact metamorphic
{1011} or the plane are rather & sections of and twinning lamellae is limestones, & metamorphosed
Hexagonal pinacoid {0001} or common prismatic crystals distinctive shales. It may also be found in
both are length-fast schists and as a sporadic detrial
nω = 1.767– since the optic mineral. It is one of the principal
1.772 ; nε = sign of the constituents of emery, which is
1.759–1.763 mineral is probably a metamorphosed
negative. bauxite or laterite. In igneous
Transparent to rocks it seldom occurs with
translucent original quartz.

Hematite Steel-gray anhedral None, may show Penetration and Very High δ = 0.280 Uniaxial (-) NA There are dozens of Large ore bodies of hematite are
black w/ crystals, grains, partings on {0001} lamellar minerals that resemble usually of sedimentary origin;
Fe2O3 metallic masses and and {1011} Hematite in looks, but also found in high-grade ore
luster in occasionally in Hematite's red streak is a bodies in metamorphic rocks
Hexagonal reflected minute scales distinguishing property. due to contact metasomatism,
light, Lepidocrocite, which has and occasionally as a sublimate
nω = 3.150– marginal a red streak like on igneous extrusive rocks
3.220, nε = red Hematite, is softer (4½ - ("lavas") as a result of volcanic
2.870–2.940 5), and is translucent in activity. It is also found
thin splinters, and colouring soils red all over the
Opaque to Goethite is less lustrous planet
Translucent
Uraninite black, Massive, botryo Indistinct On {111}, rare. None None Isotropic NA Magnetite - Attracted Occurs in granitic and syenitic
occasional idal, granular. to magnets, pegmatites. Colloform crusts in
UO2 ly w/ Octahedral not radioactive; Spinel- high temperature hydrothermal
shades of crystals Much lighter in weight veins. In quartz-pebble
Isometric brown, uncommon (3.5 - 4.1), conglomerates.
gray, or different streak;
None green Cassiterite - Different
streak (white), not
Opaque radioactive; Columbite-
Tantalite - Not
radioactive,
different crystal system
Ilmenite Blue-gray Granular to absent; parting on {0001} simple, None None Uniaxial (–) NA Hematite - Common accessory mineral in
black w/ massive & {0001} and {1011} {1011} lamellar Redder streak. igneous rocks. Also occurs in
FeTiO3 metallic lamellar ex- Magnetite - Strongly placer deposits.
luster in solutions in attracted to magnetic
Hexagonal reflected hematite or fields.
light magnetite Rutile - Lacks magnetism,
None usually more reddish on
edges, and may be
Opaque slightly translucent on
edges.
Columbite -
Higher specific gravity
lacks any magnetism.

Rutile Yellowish Usually occurs Parallel to the Common (see form) Very high, n > Extreme, nε – nω = Uniaxial (+) NA The mineral most likely Rutile is a rather widely
to reddish in small length of the balsam 0.286-0.287 to be mistaken for rutile distributed accessory mineral in
TiO2 brown in prismatic to crystals {110} is probably baddeleyite various metamorphic rocks. It
thin acicular crystals (ZrO2), w/c sometimes occasionally occurs in igneous
Tetragonal section; & in grains. occurs in corundum rocks such as the albite of
 adamanti Knee-shaped syenites. The color, Kragerö, Norway. Rutile also
nω = 2.613 nε = ne luster twins w/ {101} together w/ a very high occurs as a detrital mineral.
2.909 (589nm) in as the twin- relief is distinctive Sphene is a common associate.
reflected plane are Clear transparent synthetic
Opaque, light characteristic. rutile rivals a diamond in optical
transparent in Capillary properties
thin fragments crystals are
common
Cassiterite Colorless Subhedral Prismatic Twinning crystals Very high, Extreme; Nγ- Resembles sphalerite, Occurs in granite pegmatites, in
to gray, crystals are common; the n > balsam Nα=0.097 but the latter is isotropic. greisen and in high temperature
SnO2 yellowish, twin plane is {101} The interference From rutile it is veins. Associates with quartz,
redish or colors are high order distinguished by lower muscovite, schorlite, and topaz.
Tetragonal brown in but are usually birefringence
thin masked by the color
nω = 1.990 - sections. of the mineral
2.010 Often
nε = 2.093 - shows
2.100 zones of
varying
Transparent to color
opaque

MULTIPLE OXIDES
Spinel Colorless Occurs in Imperfect Common, but not High, Invariably Pleonaste, iron bearing Spinel occurs in metamorphic
to red, euhedral or octahedral, but it usually show in the n > balsam isotropic variety of spinel is limestone with phlogopite and
MgAl2O4 green, subhedral or in may not show slide. Twinning transitional to chondrodite, in other
olive equant in according to spinel hercynite. Spinel is metamorphic rocks, and also in
Cubic green, or frains. law with {111} distinguished from various igneous rocks. It is rare
brown in garnet by its octahedral as a detrital mineral.
1.719 thin form.
sections
Transparent to
translucent
Magnetite Black, Indisctinct parting On {Ill} as both twin Very high, n > Isotropic Compared with Magnetite occurs as an
gray with in {111}, very good and composition balsam minerals has no chromite, magnetite is accessory mineral in most
Fe3O4 brownish plane, the spinel birefringence brighter. igneous and metamorphic rocks,
tint in law, as contact in hydrothermal deposits, and in
Isometric reflected twins skarns. It is commonly found in
sun the heavy mineral fraction of
Opaque clastic sediments.
Chromite Black to None, parting may Spinel law on {1ll} Very high Isotropic Chromite is brighter Occurs for the most part in
brownish develop along {111} minerals has no than magnetite. peridotites, pyroxenites,
FeCr2O4 black; birefringence dunites, and derived
brown to serpentinites.
Isometric brownish
black on
n = 2.08-2.16 thin edges
in
Translucent to transmitte
opaque d light /
transluce
nt to
opaque
Perovskite Yellow to Usually found Cubic, noticed only The larger crystals Very high, n > Nil to 0.002. Resembles Rare, but widely distributed,
brown in in minute cubic in the larger show comlicated balsam minute crystals melanite(garnet) and mineral in basic igneous rocks,
CaTiO3 thin crystals crystals polysynthetic are dark picotite(spinel), but it especially melilite basalts and
sections. twinning between crossed has a much higher peridotites. It is also found in
Orthorhombic polars; larger refractive index than chlorite and talc schists and in
crystals shows either of these. some metamorphic limestones
nα=2.3, nβ=2.34, very weak
nγ=2.38 birefringence

Transparent to
Opaque
HYDROXIDES

Diaspore Colorless Occurs in Perfect in one Forms heart High, n > balsam Strong, nγ - nα Figure is biaxial The crystal are Associated with flint Occurs in metamorphic rocks
to pale tabular crystals direction (010). shaped twins on = 0.048; so the positive with a very length-fast. clay resembles clay such as schists and emery.
AlO(OH) blue in parallel to (021). maximum large axial angle. particles in dimension Occurs in a few altered igneous
thin (010). The interference but has stronger rocks associated with alunite.
Orthorhombic sections. crystals may be color is about birefringence.
Sometime rather large to upper third
nα = 1.702; nβ = s very minute. order.
1.722; nγ = pleochroi
1.750 c in thin
sections.
Transparent to
translucent

Brucite Colorless Usually occurs Perfect in one N/A Fair, n > balsam. Moderate, nε - Uniaxial positive with The scaly aggregates, It resembles alunite but Occurs in metamorphic calcite-
in thin in plates or direction (0001) but nω = 0.019. the first ring which are apparently has better cleavage and brucite rocks as an alteration of
Mg(OH)2 section scaly may not show in Some of the anomalous. At times fibrous, are length- anomalous interference periclase, MgO. It is sometimes
aggregates that thin sections interference the figure may be fast. colors. found in serpentine.
Hexagonal appear fibrous color are biaxial with a small
in sections anomalous; a axial angle.
nω = 1.556; nε = reddish brown
1.585 hue takes the
place of the
Transparent yellow and
orange of the
first order. If the
section is too
thin, the
anomalous
colors do not
show.
Boehmite Colorless Crystals are In one direction N/A Moderate Moderate, nγ - N/A N/A Closely resembles Widely distributed in bauxite
in thin minute and parallel to (010). nα = 0.013 gibbsite in thin section, where at times it may be the
γ-AlO(OH) section tabular but the refractive indices main mineral.
are higher and
Orthorhombic birefringence is less.

nα = 1.638; nβ =
1.645; nγ =
1.651

Translucent
Gibbsite Colorless Occurs in In one direction On {001}, common, Moderate, n > Moderate, nγ - The crystals are Since the crystals are On account of the Some bauxites are made up
to pale minute parallel to (001), usually in balsam. nα = 0.022. The usually too small to tabular parallel to aggregate structure, largely of gibbsite, others largely
Al(OH)3 brown in pseudohexagon but it may be combination with maximum give an interference (001), elongate gibbsite resembles of amorphous cliachite with
al euhedral difficult to see. other twin laws. interference figure. sections with chalcedony, but the crystalline gibbsite in cavities.
Monoclinic thin crystals in colors are bright twinning are length- relief is higher and the
sections cavities and in upper first-order slow. birefringence much
nα = 1.554- fine crystalline or lower second- stronger. It also
1.567; nβ = aggregates that order colors. resembles dahllite, but
1.554-1.567; nγ are often the mineral has weak
= 1.576-1.589 pseudomorpho birefringence.
us after
Translucent to feldspars.
transparent Reticulate
structure is
common
Cliachite Colorless Cliachite is N/A Moderate, n > In favorable N/A N/A The pisolitic structure Cliachite is the main constituent
to deep pisolitic or balsam. It is spots or in a and association with of many bauxites. Common
Al2O2(H2O)2 brown or massive difficult to test powdered form gibbsite are distinctive. associates are gibbsite and
N= 1.57 to 1.61 red in thin without any the relief and the mineral is Contraction cracks siderite. There may also be relict
Transparent to sections indication of refractive index isotropic. caused by shrinkage of minerals such as ilmenite and
nearly opaque crystalline unless the the original spheroidal sphene, for in some cases
structure. mineral is gel-form frequently bauxites are derived nepheline
powdered appear in thin sections. syenites
Limonite Limonite It frequently Absent N/A N/A The mineral is N/A N/A Goethite is similar to It is often present on the
is brown forms a stain or usually isotropic limonite but is distinctly weathered surface of rocks.
FeO(OH)·nH2O in a border but may show crystalline with parallel
reflected around other irregular extinction
N= 2.0 to 2.1 light. minerals, birefringence
Translucent particularly caused by strain.
those with a
high iron
content. It
occasionally
forms
pseudomorphs
after other
minerals
especially
pyrite.
GROUP 2 BERNARDO, PATRICK LEBECO, LOUI MAIYAO, ALBERT RAMOS, ACE SUNGAHID, JAMIE JEANNE

CARBONATE GROUP

Calcite Colorless Fine to coarse Perfect Polysynthetic Varies with the Extreme; Uniaxial negative Difficult to Rhombohedral Occurs in almost all rock types. Double Refrac
(CaCO3 ) in thin aggregates, Rhombohedral, twinning, twin- direction, Interference color is with many rings determine Cleavage(thin section) It is the primary mineral in both -tion.
Hexagonal section. usually Usually shows at plane is very Occasional Pearl gray or white at because of the marble and limestone.
Nα =1.658; But anhedral; two intersecting common sections parallel the 4th order extreme
Nβ =1.486 mostly lines at oblique to (0001) have Birefringence. It occurs with dolomite, quartz,
cloudy: angle high relief in all gypsum, barite, fluorite, pyrite,
Transparent to positions. sphalerite, galena, chalcopyrite,
Translucent danburite, stilbite, malachite,
and azurite.
Dolomite Colorless Fine to coarse Perfect Polysynthetic Varies with the Extreme Uniaxial negative Difficult to Euhedral crystals by Dolomite is a very common
to gray; grained and Rhombohedral, twinning at (02 -21) direction, ;Interference color is with many rings. determine zonal structures and by mineral.
(CaMg(CO3)2) usually parallel to (10 -11). as a twin plane. Occasional (maximum) Pearl because of the twinning lamellae
subhedral; sections parallel gray or white at the extreme parallel to the short It occurs in veins and
Trigonal to (0001) have 4th order Birefringence. diagonal. replacement deposits, in
high relief in all sedimentary rocks and
Nα =0.180; positions limestones, and in metamorphic
Nβ =0.190 dolomites
Transparentto
translucent

Magnesite Colorless; anhedral to Perfect absent as far as Changes on extreme; Uniaxial negative Difficult to Indices of refraction. Metamorphic magnesite is very
subhedral rhombohedral, known rotation, Interference color is with many rings. determine Chemical or micro similar to dolomite and calcite
(MgCO3) crystal except at Occasional Pearl gray (white at because of the chemical tests is needed and has no distinctive optical
aggregates; microcrystalline sections parallel the 4th order) extreme to distinguish. properties of it’s own aside from
Trigonal – variety to (0001) have Birefringence indices of refraction.
hexagonal high relief in all
positions.
Nα =0.191;
Nβ =0.199

Opaque

Siderite (thin anhedral to Perfect twin lamellae Varies somewhat Extreme; Uniaxial negative Difficult to Brown stain around the The chief occurrence of siderite
sections) subhedral Rhombohedral parallel to the long on rotation, Interference color is with many rings. determine borders along grains and is in veins or replacement
(FeCO3) colorless crystal of fine diagonal ( twin Occasional Pearl gray (white at because of the cleavage cracks deposits with quartz as a
to gray to course plane at (01 -12) sections parallel the 4th order) extreme common associate.
Trigonal - and may aggregates. are observed to (0001) have Birefringence.
Hexagonal be Sometimes high relief in all
yellowish shows in oolitic, positions.
Nα =0.234; or spherulitic or
Nβ =0.242 brown.(br colloform
own is structures;
Translucent due to
alteration
s);

Aragonite Colorless; columnar or Imperfect parallel Fairly common both Low when the Extreme; Basal sections give a Resembles calcite but Common as a secondary mineral
fibrous to the length of as twin lamellae columns are Nγ-Nα= 0.156; negative biaxial X=c; Y=a; Z=b lack rhombohedral in cavities of basalts and
(CaCO3) structure; cross crystals and as contact and parallel to the Interference color is figure cleavage and is biaxial. andesites.
sections are six- penetration twins vibration plane pearl gray (white of
Orthorhombic sided; of the lower the high order Found as original constituent of
nicol and high Orientation: sediments.
Nα =1.412; when these are
Nβ =1.492; Nγ normal to this Occurs in seams of limestones,
=1.540 direction. sandstones,and in veinlets.

Tranparent to
translucent
ACID CARBONATES

Trona Colorless columnar or (100) perfect; NA Low to moderate Strong, Nγ-Nα= 0.128 Biaxial negative. Z nearly Soluble in water. Thin Produced by evaporation of
in thin fibrous (111) and (001) in balsam Dispersion, r<v perpendicular to sections require special waters of saline lakes. Found in
(Na2H(CO3)2 sections; structure; cross indistinct rather strong (100) cleavage grinding fluid Nile valley, Egypt. Occurs in oil
2H2O) Gray or sections are six- shale of Green River formation
yellowish sided; in Wyoming,USA. Associated
Monoclinic white in with natron, thermonatrite,
hand halite,gypsum
Nα =1.412 specimen; .
Nβ =1.492
Nγ =1.540

Translucent
HYDRATED BORATES

Kernite Streaks of Large crystals On (011) Low to Moderate to Strong, Biaxial negative with Z = b; X^c= 70.5 Resembles gypsum Found below the surface of the
(Na2 B4O7 white many 2-3ft (100) perfect,(001) moderate; Nγ-Nα= 0.034 a large axial angle; crystals but is soluble in Mojave Desert north of Boron,
.4H2O) powder thick; good, (201) fair n<balsam r>v distinct warm water California,USA.
may occur
Monoclinic along Forms horizontal beds of about
cleavage; 100ft thick;
Nα =1.454;;Nβ
=1.472; Nγ Large deposits in Turkey and
=1.488 Argentina
Transparent
Borax White to Stubby (100) perfect, Rare on (100) Low to Moderate to rather Optic plane normal Negative biaxial Soluble in water. Mild May be found in muds of saline
(Na2 B4O7 grayish,gr prismatic (110) fair,(010) in moderate, strong, Nγ-Nα= 0.025 to (010), strong figure, strong alkaline taste. Thin lakes.
.10H2O) eenish or crystals similar traces n<balsam. crossed dispersion crossed sections require special
Monoclinic bluish; in form to dispersion r>v treatment avoiding water Associated with a considerable
Nα =1.447; pyroxene; in preparation number of 9vaporate minerals.
Nβ =1.469; Nγ Occurs at Clear Lake and Sears
=1.472 Lake, California; small deposits
in Iran and India
Translucent to
opaque
Colemanite Colorless; Short prismatic (010) perfect, (001) NA Moderate to Moderate, Nγ-Nα= Optic plane Positive biaxial Refraction indices are Discovered in Death valley,
(Ca2B6O11 at time crystals; can fair high; n>balsam 0.028 perpendicular to figure higher than kernite and California,USA.
.5H2O) milky also be massive (010) borax. Only slightly
Monoclinic white, and compact; soluble in water Large deposits in arid regions;
Nα =1.586; yellow, may be formed by the action of
Nβ =1.592; gray or meteoric waters on borax and
Nγ =1.614 muddy; ulexite

Transparent to
translucent

SULFATES

Barite Colorless Usually in In three directions, Polysynthetic Fairly high, n > Rather weak, Nγ – Sections cut parallel Slower ray is Axial angle smaller than Prominent vein mineral
(BaSO4) in thin granular parallel to {001} twinning with {110} basalm. Nα = 0.012 to {100} give a parallel to the celesite. commonly with quartz and
Orthorhombic sections; aggregates, but and {110} amd as the twin-plane is positive biaxial best cleavage. calcite.
Nα = 1.636 the individual therefore at angles occasionally found. interference figure
Nβ = 1.637 crystals may be of 90 and 78 with a moderate Also occurs in limestones and
Nγ = 1.648 enlongate; degrees. axial angle. sandstones. But rare as a strictly
Transparent to rock forming mineral.
Opaque.
Celestite Colorless Euhedral to Perfect parallel to NA Fair, n > Basalm Rather weak, Nγ – Sections cut parallel The elongation Axial angle is larger than Sedimentary limestones.
in thin anhedral {001}. Imperfect Nα =0.009 to {100} give a of tabular barite.
(SrSO4) sections; crystals, parallel to {110}. positive biaxial crystals is
sometimes fine interference figure parallel to the
Orthorhombic granular with moderate axial slower ray.
euhedral angle.
Nα = 1.622 crystals are
Nβ = 1.624 mostly tabular
Nγ = 1.631 parallel to {001}
and elongate in
Transparent to the direction of
Translucent. the b axis [010];
Anhydrite Colorless Usually fine to In three directions Polysynthetic Moderate, n > Strong, Nγ – Nα Cleavage fragments NA Higher relief and Sedimentary beds. Often
in thin medium- at right angles twinning with {101} basalm. Some =0.044 and sections parallel birefringence than encountered in deep drilling
(CaSO4) sections; grained parallel to {100}, as twin-plane is sections show a to {100} give a biaxial gypsum. usually altered to gypsum. Also
aggregates or {010}, and {001}. It common. slight change of positive interference often occurs with halite and is
Orthorhombic anhedral to may also show relief when the figure with a a common in salt mines.
subhedral parting parallel to stage is rotated. moderate axial angle.
Nα = 1.570 crystals, which {101} which is due The axial plane is
Nβ = 1.576 are sometimes to twinning. {010}.
Nγ = 1.614 elongate.
Euhedral
Transparent to crystals are
Translucent. rare. ;
Gypsum Colorless Usually occurs Perfect in one Polysynthetic Low, n slightly < Rather weak, Nγ – Biaxial positive with a Cleavage traces Lower relief and weaker Chief constituent of gypsum
(CaSO4 in thin in anhedral to direction {010}, twinning often Basalm. Nα =0.009 moderate axial angle. are parallel to birefringence than rock, which is mostly formed by
.2H2O) sections; subhedral imperfect parallel found in thin Axial plane is {010} both slower and anhydrite. the hydration of anhydrite.
Monoclinic aggregates and to {100} and {111}. sections of gypsum faster rays since
Nα = 1.520 is often uneven is produced by b = β or Y. Gypsum occurs in veinlets and
Nβ = 1.522 grained. Also heating the section. between grains of anhydrite.
Nγ = 1.529 sometimes
Transparent to shows a fibrous
Translucent. structure. ;
Polyhalite Colorless Granular or Parallel to (100) and Polysynthetic Low, n>balsam Moderate, Nγ-Nα= Biaxial negative with Resemble gypsum, but Occurs in saline beds; the Extinction- oblique
(K2Ca2Mg(SO4)4 to reddish fibrous parting parallel tp twinning with (010) 0.019, interference a rather large axial both its refrsctive indices common associate are halite,
• 2H2O) in thin structure. (010) as the twin-plane is color rsnge up to 2nd angle and birefringence are sylite,magnesite and anhydrite
Triclinic section, very common order blue higher.
Nα =1.548; reddis
Nβ =1.562; Nγ color is
=1.567 due to
hematitic
Transparent pigment;
Alunite Colorless Crystal vary Fair cleavage in one NA n>balsam, when Moderate, Basal sections give a Crystal and Does not react to acids Occurs as a hydrothermal Related minerals:
in thin from tabular to direction. the stage is N(epsilon)- positive uniaxial cleavage traces except to slowly dissolve, alteration product of rhyolite, natroalunite, the
(Kal3(SO4)2(OH)6 section; pseudocubic rotated there is a N(omega)=0.020; the interference figure are length-fast. unlike dolomite and dacites, and andesites. sodium analogue
) rhombohedral slight change of interference color calcite. of alunite, is very
- relief. range up to 2nd similar to alunite
Hexagonal order blue. in its properties.
Extinction:
N(omega) parallel or
=1.572,N(epsilon symmetrical in
) =1.592. most sections,
basal section are
Transparent to dark in all
translucent direction
Jarosite Colorless Occurs in Distinct cleavage in NA Very high, Extreme, N(omega)- Tabular crystal give a Difficult to test Insoluble in water. A rather common mineral in the Extinction: parallel
(Kfe3+3 to brown crystal one direction. n>balsam N(epsilon)=0.105 negative uniaxial on account of Soluble in HCl. Strongly lower oxidized zone of ore or assymetrical,
(SO4)2(OH)6) in thin aggregates and figure with many the extreme pyroelectric. deposit. It is occasionally found basal section are
Hexagonal section; occasionally in rings. birefringence. in volcanic igneous rock, dark in all
euhedral perhaps as a late hydrothermal position.
N(epsilon)=1.715 crystals, which mineral. Alteration: alters
, are similar to readily to
N(omega)=1.820. those alunite, limonite.
for these two
Transparent to minerals are
translucent isomorphous
VANADIUM OXYSALT

Carnotite yellow; X- in loose (100) perfect On {001} as both high, varies with Extreme, Nγ-Nα= Negative biaxial X = c; Y = b; Z ∧ a resembles tyuyamunite numerous occurrences in yellow; X-nearly
(K2(UO2)2(V2O8) nearly microcrystalline twin and direction 0.20 interference figure ' 14◦ but it is less likely to sandstone of the urban district colorless, Y-canary
• 1−3H2O) colorless, aggregates, composition plane. occur in scales of laths. in western Colorado. May be an yellow, Z-canary
Monoclinic Y-canary also as a Autunite is yellow is alteration product of uraninite. yellow. Pleochroic.
Nα =1.750;Nβ =1. yellow, Z- powder, at more flake like. Autunite
925;Nγ =1.950. canary times compact. is strongly fluorescence
yellow. in ultraviolet light.
Translucent Pleochroic
PHOSPHATE

Monazite Nearly Euhedral Parting parallel to NA Very high, Strong to very Biaxial positive with a X = b; Z ∧ c = 2◦– More like sphene than Occurs in pegmatites, granite
(Ce,La,Nd,Pr)PO4 colorless crystals, which {001} is often n>balsam strong, Ny-Nα=0.049 small axial angle. The 6◦. any common mineral, and may be found in veins.
Monoclinic to are usually very prominent to 0.051 axial plane is normal but birefringence is not
Nα=1.786 to neutral: small to {010}. Dispersion so high. Since it usually It is often a detrital mineral and
1.800 strong, r<v contains Thorium it is maybe found in ancient
Nβ=1.788 to radioactive and even in sedimentary strata or younger
1.801 thin section will affect a in sands.
Nγ= 1.837 to sensitive Geiger counter
1.849
Translucent to
opaque
Apatite Colorless Minute six- Imperfect basal NA Moderate, Weak, Nw-N€= 0.003 Basal sections are The hexagonal form of Common accessory mineral of
(Ca5(PO4)3F) in thin sided prismatic {0001} shown as n>balsam to 0.004 usually length-fast, apatite is distinctive practically all igneous rocks
Hexagonal section: crystals fractures. but crystals of
N€=1.630 to tabular habit are
1.651 length-slow
Nw=1.633 to
1.655
Transparent to
translucent
Collophane Usually Usually massive None NA Moderate, Usually isotropic but NA Birefringent Some specimens of In sedimentary phosphatic A name used for
light to but maybe n>balsam may show weak areas may be collophane resemble limestones, in phosphorites or the massive,
(3Ca3(PO4)2nCa( dark oolitic or form- length-slow or opal, but the refractive so-called phosphate rocks as the cryptocrystalline,
CO3,F2,O)(H2O)x brown, colloform in birefringence(up to length-fast index of latter is always chief constituent, and in colloidal
) yellowish grains and 0.005) less than balsam phosphate nodules (amorphous)
brown, fragments varieties of
Amorphous gray,etc in Carbonate-rich
thin Fluorapatite or
N=1.57 to 1.62 section, Carbonate-rich
but
ocassional
ly it is
colorless
Lazulite Blue to Euhedral Indistinct parallel to Polysyntethic Fairly high, Strong, Ny-Nα= 0.036 The figure is biaxial The long Lazulite is practically the Confined metamorphic rocks. It
(Al2(Mg,Fe)(OH)2 colorless crystals of {110} twinning is n>balsam to 0.038, so that the negative with large diagonal of the only blue pleochroic occurs in quartzites and in
(PO4)2) in thin bipyramidal common. Twin- maximum axial angle. The axial crystal section is mineral with strong quartz veins.
Monoclinic sectios. habit but it axis=[001] interference color is palne is {010}. the faster ray birefringence.
Nα=1.603 to Some usually occurs upper second or Dispersion, r<v
1.604 sections in anhedral lower third order.
Nβ=1.632 to pleochroic
1.633 from blue
Ny=1.639 to to
1.642 colorless
Transparent to
translucent, may
be nearly opaque
SCHEELITE

Scheelite Colorless Usually {101} distinct, {112} Common, High relief Nw-N€=0.017 Uniaxial positive NA Fluorescence under Found in many contact
to white granular. poor, {001} penetration and moderate short-wave UV is bright metamorphism.
(CaWO4) pure. Ocassionally indistinct contact twins, blue, bluish white to
Maybe found in composition plane yellow.
Tetragonal yellow to tetragonal {110} or {001}
orange- bipyramidal Specimens with more
Nw=1.920 yellow molybdenum tend to
N€=1.937 when fluoresce white to
molybden yellow, similar to
Transparent to um- powellite.
opaque bearing.

Occasionally fluoresces
red under midwave UV.
GROUP 3 | Kristine Anne Viguilla, Jonico Bueanvides, Jan Jesse Go,

QUARTZ (Si02) Colorless -Quartz occur in -The cleavage is -Rarely, shown in Moderate, 1.5442-1.5533 -Basal section of -The position of -Is a ubiquitous mineral. Found Parallel in
in thin euhedral imperfect thin sections. n<balsam ordinary thickness the slower ray in many rock types euhedral crystals
Hexagonal sections.It prismatic rhombohedral. (10- give a uniaxial marks the trace as an essential, accesory, or and symmetrical
often crystals, in 11). positive figure of secondary mineral. to cleavage traces.
nw= 1.5442, contains veinlets,disemi -Almost rectangular without any rings the c axis. It is especially abundant in
ne=1.553 inclusions nated grains, in favorable -The interference Euhedral crystals sandstone, arkoses,
ne-nw= 0.009 and as re sections since figure of thick are therfore sands, quartzites, granites,
-Occurs often rr'= 85 46' sections greater length-slow rhyolites, and gneisses.
as a late that 1 mm has a
interstitial weakor hollow
mineral. Quartz center on
is account of rotary
-common as polarization.
pseudomorphs
after other
mineralsplacem
ent
anhedral.

OPAL (SiO2 · Colorless -Often found in Absent, but Moderate, but Usually nil, but some The high relief and low Silica rich volcanic rocks,
nH2O ) to pale colloform crust, irregular fractures n< balsam varities, especially index of refraction are component of some opals
gray or in veilnets, and are found on the hyalite, may distinctive. Lechatelierite
Mineralod brown in as edges of thin show very weak is similar and it may be
thin a cavity filling sections. birefringes that is necessary to try the
n=1.40-1.46 sections. or lining. caused by strain. closed-tube test for
-It is common water
as replacement in order to distinguish it
of feldspar and from opal.
as the
cementing
material in
sandstone.
TRIDYMITE (SiO2) Colorless .-Occurs in {0001} Indistinct, Wedge shad twins Moderate, but Very weak, . Silica rich volcanic rocks, May be
in thin minute {1010} Imperfect/ made up of two or n< balsam ny-na= 0.004 component of some opals intergrown
Pseudohexagonal sections. euhedral Brittle - Conchoidal three with cristobalite.
crystals as a individuals are
na=1.469, cavity lining characteristics.
ny=1.473 -The crystals
ny-na=0.004 are six sided,
thin, tabular,
and are
often twinned.
Also occurs as
porous
crystalline
Aggregate.

CRISTOBALITE(Si Colorless Pseudoisometri On {111} Moderate, n< Silica rich volcanic rocks, Polymorph of:
O2) in thin c(Isometric balsam. component of some Coesite, Quartz, St
section above 230 opals, deep sea sedimentary ishovite, Tridymite
Tetragonal degree celcius) rocks, porcellanites

na=1.484,
ny=1.487
ny-na=0.003

LECHATELIERITE Colorless Amorphous None Nil. Dark between As so called fulgurites, formed
(SiO2) in thin silica glass. crossed nicols. when quartz
sections Usually sand has been molten by a
vesicular and stroke of lightning
n=1.458-1.462 be banded and
show flow
structure.

COESITE(SiO2) Colorless As irregular to (010) and (012), birefringence Rarely captured within crystals High temperature
in thin nearly suspected interference colour of other minerals in and high pressure
Monoclinic sections rectangular range mantle xenoliths; more polymorph of
grains, up to 3 at 30µm thicknes common in impact craters quartz (500-800
na=1.599, mm deg C, ~ 30-35
ny=1.604 kbar). Formed in
impact craters and
ultra-high-
pressure eclogite
rocks.

STISHOVITE(SiO2 Colorless None Morphology: In impact craters, possibly

) in thin Aggregates of submicron abundant in the
sections particles. Earth's lower mantle
nw=1.800,
ne=1.845
Tetragonal
Analcime Colorless Analcime Imperfect cubic, Moderate, Analcime is either Leucite very much Analcime is a secondary mineral
(Analcite) in thin occurs in which in sections n<balsam dark between resembles analcime but in cavities and seams of igneous
NaAl(SiO3)2 H2O sections equant crystals often appears as crossed polars or has slightly greater rocks, usually associated with
of two sets of lines at shows very weak refractive index (1.508 as other zeolites and calcite. In
Isometric trapezohedral the right angles. birefringence (not against 1.487). some igneous rocks, such as
habit that are over 0.002). Use the teschenites and analcime
n = 1.487 octagonal to sensitive-violet plate basalts, it occurs in the
rounded in to detect the groundmass as a deuteric
sections. It may birefringence. mineral. In several western
also occur in localities it occurs in lake beds.
the
groundmass of
irregular
masses.

Heulandite Colorless Heulandite Perfect in one Rather low, Weak, ny-na= 0.007; The figure is biaxial Cleavage traces Heulandite resembles Heulandite is a secondary
H4CaAl2(SiO3)6 in thin usually occurs direction {010} n<balsam the interference positive with a are parallel to stilbite but has better mineral in the seams and
3H2O sections in distinct colors range up to moderate axial angle. the faster ray. cleavage and is optically cavities of igneous rocks,
crystals that are white to the first The axial plane is positive, whereas stilbite especially basalts. Stilbite is a
Monoclinic tabular parallel order. Sections normal to {010}. is optically negative. The common associate.
to {010}. parallel to {010} that Dispersion, r<v side pinacoid {010}
na= 1.496 to include cleavage sections of heulandites
1.499 flakes have very are unsymmetrically and
nb= 1.497 to weak birefringence the corresponding
1.505 since nb-na= 0.001 sections of stilbite
ny= 1.501 to symmetrical on account
1.505 of twinning.
2V= 0 deg. to
48deg. ; opt. (+)
b=y or Z, c /\ B or
Y= -6deg.
Stilbite Colorless Stilbite usually Good in one Twins with {010} as Rather low, Weak, ny-na= 0.006 The figure is biaxial The cleavage Heulandite is similar to Stilbite is a secondary mineral in
H4(Ca,Na2)Al2(Si in thin occurs in direction. {010} twin-plane are n<balsam to 0.008; negative with a traces are stilbite, but it has better cavities and seams of igneous
O3)6 4H2O sections sheaflike common. interference colors moderate axial angle. parallel either to cleavage and is optically rocks. Usual associates are
aggregates. are gray and white to The axial plane is the slow ray or positive instead of calcite, heulandites, and other
Monoclinic the first order. {010}. Dispersion, r<v to the fast ray. negative. zeolites. It has been found as a
hot-spring mineral nin the
na= 1.494 to interstices of sandstone.
1.500
nb= 1.498 to
1.504
ny= 1.500 to
1.508
2V= 33deg.
plus/minus; opt.
(-)
b=B or Y, a /\ a or
X = +5deg.
Chabazite Colorless Chabazite is Imperfect Moderate, Very weak to weak, The figure is either Chabazite may be Chabazite is a secondary
(Ca,Na2)Al2(SiO3 in thin usually found in rhombohedral, n<balsam ny-na= 0.002 to uniaxial or biaxial mistaken for other mineral in cavities and seams of
)6 6H2O sections euhedral hence almost 0.010; interference with a small axial zeolites, especially igneous rocks, especially
Monoclinic rhombohedral rectangular. colors are first-order angle. The optical analcime. The basalts. It is often associated
na = 1.478 to crystals that gray. character is positive. birefringence of with calcite, prehnite, and other
1.485 approach the chabatize is a little higher zeolites.
ny= 1.480 to cube (10-11:- than that of analcime.
1.490 1101 = 85
2V= 0 deg. to degrees 14
32deg.; opt (+) miutes)
Natrolite Colorless Natrolite Parallel to the Moderate, Rather weak, ny- na= A good figure is The crystals are Scolecite resembles Natrolite is a secondary mineral
Na2Al2Si3O10 in thin usually occurs length of the n<balsam 0.012 to 0.013; the difficult to obtain on always length- natrolite but is length- found in cavities of igneous
2H2O sections in long crystals {110} maximum account of the small slow. fast instead of length- rocks, especially basalt. The
prismatic interference color is size of most of the slow and has oblique associates are other zeolites and
Orthorhombic crystals or yellow or orange of crystals. extinction. Thomsonite calcite.
fibrous the first order. has parallel extinction
na= 1.473 to aggregates that but is length-slow in
1.480 are often more some sections and
nb= 1.476 to or less length-fast in others.
1.482 radiating. Cross
ny= 1.485 to sections of
1.493 crystals are
2V=60deg to nearly square
63deg.; opt. (+) (110 /\ 110 =
a=a or X, b= B or ca.89degrees).
Y, c = y or Z

Mesolite Colorless Mesolite Perfect in two Twins with {100} as Moderate, Very weak, ny-na= The figure is biaxial The fibers are in Mesolite very much The occurrence of mesolite is
Na2Ca2Al6(Si3O1 in thin usually occurs directions (110) and twin-plane are n<balsam 0.001; the maximum positive with a very part length-slow resembles the other the same as that of other
0)3 8H2O sections in fibrous (1-10) universal, but the interference color is large axial angle. The and in part fibrous zeolites. In zeolites, in the cavities of
aggregates. twinning is not first-order gray. figure lies across length-fast. common with basalts an related rocks.
Monoclinic conspicuous. fibers. Dispersion, thomsonite the fibers are
r>v strong. in part length-slow and in
na= 1.505 part length-fast. From
nb= 1.505 thomsonite it may be
ny= 1.506 distinguished by the
2V= ca.80deg; maximum extinction
opt. (+) angle of 2-5 degrees and
c/\ B or Y = 2deg. by its larger axial angle.
to 5deg
Thomsonite Colorless Thomsonite In one direction Rather low, Rather weak, ny-na= The figure is biaxial Some of the Thomsonite is much like Thomsonite occurs as a cavity
NaCa2Al5(SiO4)5 in thin usually occurs {010}. n<balsam 0.006 to 0.012; positive with rather fibers are length- the other fibrous zeolites filling in subsilicic volcanic rocks
6H2O sections in fibrous or maximum large axial angle. The slow and some in general appearance such as amygdaloidal basalts.
columnar interference colors figure lies across the length-fast since and optical properties.
Orthorhombic aggregates. range from first fibers since the axial c=Y Natrolite is length-slow
Euedral crystals order white up to plane is {001}. and scolecite is length-
na=1.512 to are very rare. second-order blue in Dispersion, r>v fast, whereas some of
1.530 diff. specimens. strong. the fibers of thomsonite
nb= 1.513 to Cross sections of are length-slow and
1.532 fibers show the some length-fast. The
ny= 1.518 to highest interference same is true of mesolite,
1.542 color for a given but in mesolite the
2V= 44deg. to thickness. maximum extinction
55deg.; opt(+) angle c/\ B or Y is about
a=a or X, b= y or 3degrees. The axial angle
Z, c= B or Y of mesolite is much
larger than that of
thomsonite.
Erionite White Found in fine Low, n= plus or Moderate, ny-na = May resemble natrolite, Found in cavities in rhyolite in
(Na2,K2,Ca,Mg)4 fibers like wool, minus balsam 0.015 butn with lower relief in Oregon. A widespread
.5Al9Si27O72 as well as in balsam. constituent of altered tuff strata
27H2O prismatic bet. Eureka and Elko, Nevada.
Orthorhombic aggregates.

na= 1.530
nb= 1.533
ny= 1.545
2V= ?; opt.(+)
Scolecite Colorless Scolecite occurs Distinct in two Twinning is Low, n<balsam Weak, ny-na = 0.007; The figure is biaxial The crystals are Scolecite is much Scolecite is a secondary mineral
in thin in crystal directions {110} at common. The c axis so the interference negative with a always length-fast. like natrolite and found in cavities of igneous
Monoclinic sections aggregates with angles of ca. [001] is the twin- colors are gray and moderate axial angle. other rare fibrous rocks, especially basalts.
a columnar to 88degrees. axis and (100) the white of the first The axial plane is zeolites. The oblique
na= 1.512 fibrous composite face. order. normal to {010}. extinction of about
nb= 1.519 structure. Dispersion, r<v 17degrees and
ny= 1.519 strong. twining are the
2V= 36deg; opt. most distinctive
(-) features of
b= y or Z, c/\ a or scolecite.
X = -15deg. to -
18deg.
Laumontite Colorless Usually {010} and {110} Low to Rather weak, ny-na= 2V ranges The crystals are Frequently found in veins on
CaAl2SiO12 in thin prismatic or perfect moderate. 0.1012 considerably. length-slow, while igneous rocks, as well as in
4H2O sections fibrous. Dispersion, r<v stilbite and scolecite drusy cavities. Occurs in volcanic
strong. are length-fast. rocks and as a replacement of
Monoclinic vitric tuffs. It may be partially
dehydrated to leonhardite, a
na= 1.502 to closely related species.
1.514
nb= 1.512 to
1.522
ny= 1.514 to
1.525
2V= 26deg. to
47deg.; opt. (-)
Axial plane {010}
FELDSPHATHOIDS GROUP

LEUCITE Colorless Always occurs Poor/Indistinct Compli-cated Fair, n<balsam Very weak, uniaxial (+) Resembles analcime. Occurs almost exclusively as
KAl In thin in euhedral polysynthetic -= 0.001 phenocrysts in lavas and the
sections. crystals twinning in several Minute crystals may corresponding tuffs.
Pseudoiso-metric directions. not show any
(isometric above) Crystal form is birefringence. Leucite bearing rocks are
trapezohedron common in Italy.
ordinary = (211), which
1.508-1.511 shows
extraordinary = octagonal
1.509-1.511 sections

Nepheline Colorless Crystals have Imperfect parallel -------- Very low, n Weak, Basal sections give a The rectangular The mineral most Confined to soda-rich igneous
(Na,K)(Al,Si) to turbid rectangu-lar t0 about the same = 0.003 to 0.004 negative uniaxial sections are length- likely to be mistaken rocks and a few basaltic rocks.
in thin and hexagonal (10-10), not always as balsam but figure without any fast. for nepheline is
Hexagonal sections. sections and apparent usually slightly rings. orthoclase, but latter
sometimes higher. has better cleavage
nw = 1.529-1.546 show zonal and is biaxial.
ne = 1.526-1.544 structure.

Cancrinite Colorless Usually Good cleavage, Rare lamellar Fair, Variable from rather Basal sections give a Crystal outlines and Distinguished from It is probably a deuteric mineral
3NaAlSi to yellow anhedral. parallel to (10-10) n weak (0.007) to negative uniaxial cleavage traces are similar minerals by since it often surrounds and
in moderate (0.028) interference figure length-fast. its stronger apparently replaces feldspars.
Hexagonal sections a The interference with not more than birefringence. Its associates are plagioclase
little colors vary from first- one or two rings. (esp. albite), microline,
1.491 to 1.524 thicker order pale yellow up nepheline and sodalite.
than to middle second
normal. order.
Sodalite In thin Occur in six- Imperfect, parallel Fair, n = 1.483 - 1.487 Resembles analcime, Practically confined to soda-rich
3NaAlSiNaCl sections, sided euhedral to (110), more likely n Nil. but the latter usually igneous rocks such as syenites
olorless to crystals and in to show on edges of seconday. and trachytes.
Isometric gray, anhedra. the slide. It may be necessary It is prominent inrocks called
often with to make sodalite syenites.
n = 1.483 - 1.487 dark microchemical test Common associate of
borders to confirm the nepheline.
determination of
sodalite.
Hauyne Colorless, Both It may show Rather low, Usually isotropic, but Resembles sodalite, Occurs in (1)soda-rich volcanic
Na6Ca2Al6Si6O2 gray, pale octahedrons imperfect cleavage n occasionally it may but its refractive rocks such as phonolite and in
4(SO4)2 blue, and (dodecahedral, as show very weak index is higher and (2)the contact metamorphic
bluish dodecahedrons in sodalite) birefringence up to its cleavage is less limestones or muscovite-
Isometric green to are common about 0.004. prominent than diopside gneisses known as lapis
deep blue crystal form. sodalite. lazuli.
in thin Presence of pyrite is
sections. characteristic of the
sulfide-bearing
Color may hayne lapis lazuli.
vary
within a
single
crystal.

Trans-
parent to
trans
lucent.
Melilite Colorless Usual forms are Indistict parallel to Fairly high, Weak, =0.005 to Basal sections give a The rectangular Elongated sections Occurs in subsilicic igneous
to pale euhedral (001), which often nbalsam 0.006 uniaxial negative sections are length- with weak rocks. Usual associates are
Gehlenite yellow in crystals of appears as a single Interference colors figure without any slow, since the birefringence and augite, olivine, nepheline,
m( thin tabular habit crack in the center are first-order gray rings. mineral is tabular in peg structure are leucite, and perovskite.
sections. that show as of the section. and often anomalous habit and optically characteristic. It is highly found in highly
rectangular Berlin blue. negative. Resembles nepheline metamorphosed crystalline
Akermanite sections. but the relief is fairly limestone at Crestmore,
n( Often has “peg high instead of low. California.
) structure” due
to lines normal
Tetragonal to the length of
the sections.

PYROXENE GROUP

Orthopyroxene

Group 4 | Patrick Cyprian Cervatos, Rainier Enriquez, Vinalyn Marrero, Nikka Rae Tosoc

Enstatite Colorless Prismatic {110} in two Rarely present High Rather weak Biaxial positive The crystals and Lack of pleochroism Subsilisic igneous rocks and
to neutral crystals directions 0.008 to 0.009 cleavage traces are from hypersthene, derived serpentinites, also
length-slow parallel extinction found in meteorites
Hypersthene Neutral to Subhedral Parallel to {110} --- High Rather weak, 0.010 Biaxial negative The cleavage traces Pleochroism Igneous rocks(norite,
pale crystals to 0.016 are length- slow hypersthene gabbro, andesite,
green or charnockite)
pale red
Clinopyroxenes

Diopside Colorless, Subhedral Parallel to {110} Twins witth {100} as Fairly High Rather strong, 0.029 Biaxial positive The extinction Lower refractive Garnet, wollastonite,
neutral, crystals twin plane, to 0.031 direction that makes indices, larger idocrase(contact metamorphic
pale polysynthetic the smaller angle extinction angle zones)
green to twinning with {001} with the cleavage
bright as twin plane traces in longitudinal
green sections is the slower
ray
Augite Almost Short prismatic {110} in two Twins with {100} as High Moderate Biaxial positive The extinction Extinction angle is a Subsilicic igneous
colorless, crystals directions twin plane, 0.021 to 0.025 direction that makes little saller and the rocks(auganites, gabbros,
neutral, polysynthetic the smaller angle color is lighter in basalts, olivine gabbros,
pale twinning with {001} with the cleavage diopside limburgites, granulites,
greenish as twin plane, traces is the faster peridotites, pyroxene andesites,
or pale combined {100} ray gneisses
purplish twins with {001}
brown polysynthetic
Pigeonite Colorless Anhedral {110} in two {100} as twin plane Fairly high Moderate Biaxial positive Extinction direction Small axial angle Igneous (intermediate, mafic) , Clinoenstatite as a
crystals directions 0.021 to 0.033 that makes the metamorphic related mineral,
smaller angle with prismatic, tabular
the cleavage traces is
the slower ray
Hedenbergite Neutral to Columnar {110} in two ----- Very high Moderate Biaxial positive Extinction direction High indices of In contact metamorphic zones Vitreous, non
greenish aggregates directions 0.018 to 0.019 that makes the refraction fluorescent, brittle
smaller angle with
the cleavage traces is
the faster ray
Aegerine - Augite green Euhedral {110} in two {100} as twin-plane high Strong Biaxial positive Extinction direction Large extinction Soda-rich igneous rocks Monoclinic-
crystals directions 0.029 to 0.037 nearest the c-axis is angles prismatic, vitreous
the faster ray
Aegerine green Long prismatic {110} in two ----- high Strong to very strong Biaxial negative Crystals are always Small maximum Soda-rich igneous rocks Acmite as related
crystals directions 0.037 to 0.059 length-fast extinction angle and mineral, vitreous
length-fast character
Jadeite Colorless Granular to {110} in two {100} as twin-plane high Moderate Biaxial positive Extinction direction Large extinction Metamorphic rocks of blueshisr Sometimes found
to green columnar directions 0.012 to 0.023 nearest the c-axis is angle and high facies more orr less
the slower ray refractive indices altered to
tremolite-
actinolite
Spodumene colorless Euhedral Perfect parallel to {100} as twin-plane Fairly high Moderate Biaxial positive Parallel extintion Small extinction Lithium granite pegmatites Sometimes
crystals {110} 0.013 to 0.027 angle and by very altered to a
conspicuous parting mixture of albite
and muscovite
known as
cymatolite
Wollastonite Colorless Columnar/ Perfect parallel to {100} as twin-plane Fairly high Weak, 0.014 Biaxial negative with Length slow/ length Oblique extinction In contact metamorphism, in CaSiO3
Fibrous/ nearly (100) Maximum moderate axial angle fast and typical schist and gneisses, in limestone Trimorphous
rectangular interference is amphibole cross inclusions in volcanic rocks
orange section and cleavage
Longitudinal section- Interference figure is
gray or white almost normal
interference color
Amphibole Group
Orthoamphiboles

Anthopyllite Colorless/ Long prismatic 2 directions {110} at Absent High Moderate, 0.016- Biaxial positive with Lenth-slow Resembles tremolite- (Mg,Fe)7(OH)2(Si4
Pale color crystal to angles 54⁰ and 126⁰ 0.025 large axial angle or actionolite and O11)2
fibrous Cross fractures are Interference color neutral cummingtonite Related to Gedrite
aggregates common range up to low Axial plane {010}
second order
Clinoamphiboles

Cummingtonite Colorless Parallel to Two directions at {100} as twin plane Moderately high Strong, 0.025-0.029 Biaxial positive with Length-slow Has a larger Metamorphic rocks (Fe,Mg)7(OH)2(Si4
to neutral subradiating angles 56⁰ and 124⁰ large axial angle extinction angle and O11)2
aggregates of lower indices of Extinction angle
prismatic refraction than varies from 15⁰-
crystal grunerite 20⁰
Grunerite Neutral Fribrous – Two directions at (100) as twin plate Fairly high Strong, 0.042-0.054 Biaxial negative with Length-slow Has smaller Product of metamorphism Fe7(OH)2(Si4O11)
columnar angles 56⁰ and 124⁰ large axial angle maximum extinction Occurs in metamorphic rocks 2
angle and higher like mica schist at Collabrieres, Iron greately
indices of refreaction France predominate
than cummingtonite magnesium
Tremolite – Colorless- Prismatic Two directions at {100} as twin-plane Fairly high Moderate to strong, Biaxial negative with Length-slow Extinction angle and Metamorphosed limestones of Ca2(Mg,Fe)5(OH)2
Actinolite pale crystals and angles 56⁰ and 124⁰ 0.022-0.027 large axial angle amphibole cross low to medium grade (Si4O11)2
green columnar to sections are
fibrous characteristics
aggregates
Nephrite Colorless Fibrous to The same with With {100} as twin- Fairly high; n> Moderate; nϒ - No good interference Most sections are Distinguished from In association with serpentine as Sometimes
to gray in fibro-lamellar tremolite-actinolite plane is balsam nα=0.022 to 0.027 figure on account of length-slow jadeite by its smaller “kidneys”with more o less altered to talc;
thin aggregates of but is rarely distinct occasionally found the aggregate maximumaxtinction schistose structure and in nα=1.600-1.628
section imperfect on account of but does not seem structure; Biaxial angle and its lower derived water-worn pebbles and nβ=1.613-1.644
prismatic interfelted fibers. to be common negative with a large indices of refraction boulder nϒ=1.625-1.655
crystals axial angle and also by its lower
specific gravity
Hornblende Green or Prismatic in {110} in two Twins with {100} as Rather high; Moderate; nϒ - Biaxial negative with ----- Hornblende differs Very common and widely nα=1.614-1.675
brown of habit with directions at angles the twin-plane are n>balsam nα=0.019 to 0.026 a large axial angle from augite with distributed mineral in many nβ=1.618-1691
various pseudohexagon of about 56˚ and rather common; cleavage, types of igneous rocks; Occurs in nϒ=1.633-1.701
tones in al cross 124˚ Often manifest as pleachroism and max schists, gneisses and
thin sections; twin seams extinction angle; amphibolites
section Crystals are Brown hornblende
rarely well resembles biotite,
terminated but the latter has
better cleavage and
parallel or almost
parallel extinction
Lamprobolite Yellow to Almost {110} in two Twins with {100} as High; n>balsam Rather strong to very Biaxial negative with The crystals are Lamprobolite is Volcanic rocks; Fairly common nα=1.670-1.692
brown, invariably in directions at angles the twin-plane are strong; nϒ - nα=0.026 a large axial angle length-slow; Cross distinguished fro as a detrital mineral; Produced nβ=1.683-1.730
often with euhedral of about 56˚ and found but are not to 0.072 sections have ordinary brown from ordinary hornblende by nϒ=1.693-1.760
opaque crystals with 124˚ conspicuous on symmetrical hornblende by the the oxidation of the iron,
borders the account of the extinction smaller extinction probably by hot gases at the
pseudohexagon small size of the angle and the end of the magmatic stage
al cross section extinction angle stronger
of the birefringence
amphiboles;
short prismatic
Riebeckite Dark blue Subhedral {110} in two ----- High; n>balsam Very weak; nϒ - Biaxial negative with The crystals are The color, Characteristic of a soda-rich; nα=1.693
in thin prismatic directions at angles nα=0.004 a large axial angle length-fast pleachroism, and Often associated with aegirine nβ=1.695
sections crystals and in of about 56˚ and small extinction nϒ=1.698
fibrous and 124˚ angle are distinctive
 asbestiform
aggregates

Glaucophane Blue to Prismatic {110} in two ----- Fairly high; Moderate; nϒ - Biaxial negative with The crystals are The axial color, Found in certain schists and nα=1.621-1.655
violet in crystals or directions at angles n>balsam nα=0.013 to 0.018 a small to moderate length-slow together with the gneisses nβ=1.638-1.664
thin columnar of about 56˚ and axial angle small extinction nϒ=1.639-1.668
sections aggregates; The 124˚ angle and amphibole
cross sections cross section and
are cleavage distinguish
pseudohexagon glaucophane from all
al or rhombic other minerals
except crosstite and
glastaldite

OLIVINE GROUP

Monticel-lite Colorless; In granular Imperfect parallel Not common but Rather high, Moderate, Biaxial with a large Crystals showing Difficult to recognize Contact metamophic mineral
(CaMgSiO4) aggregates of to (010) has been reported n >balsam Nγ- Nα= axial angle. The axial cleavage are length - since it has no very usually found in limestones and
Orthorhombic anhedral to with twin plane 0.014 to 0.018 plane is (001). slow distinctive dolomites.
Nα = subhedral (031), giving six- Dispersion, properties. It
1.641 – 1.651 crystals, it may pointed star-shaped r>v resembles forsterite
Nβ = also occur in crystals and olivine but has
1.646 – 1.662 euhedral weaker birefringrnce
Nγ = prismatic than either of those.
1.655 – 1.669 crystals.
Transparent

Group 5 | JONATHAN GONZALES, PERCY YOPAI, CHARIS SOLOMON, JULIUS CARIAGA

Forsterite Colorless; Euhedral to Imperfect (010) On {100}, {011} and High, Strong, Biaxial positive with a Crystals showing An iron free olivine Occurred for the most part in
(Mg2SiO4) Subheral; {012} n >balsam Nγ- Nα= very large axial angle. cleavage are length - and so resembles metamorphic limestones as a
Orthorhombic 0.032 to 0.040 The axial plane is slow ordinary olivine but product of dedolomitization.
Nα = (001). Dispersion, r<v has somewhat lower Occurs in contact –metamorphic
1.635-1.640 indices of refraction zones, where it is often
Nβ = associated with magnetite.
1.651-1.660
Nγ =
1.670-1.680
Transpa-rent to
translu-cent

Olivine Colorless; Anhedral; Imperfect Parallel Sometimes found, Fairly High, Strong, Biaxial positive with a Crystals showing The mineral most apt Olivine is an exceedingly
(Mg,Fe)2SiO4 to (010) but the lamellae are n>balsam Nγ- Nα= large axial angle, but cleavage are length - to be mistaken for common mineral in subsilicic
Orthorhombic broad and not well 0.037-0.041; olivine high in iron is slow olivine is diopside, igneous rocks such as basalts,
Nα = defined optically negative. but diopside has olivine grabbros and
1.651 – 1.681 The maximum better cleavage, peridotites.in the
Nβ = interference color is oblique extinction, monomineralic rock dunite it is
1.670 -1.706 upper second order and somewhat the diminant mineral.
Nγ = weaker
1.689-1.718 birefringence.
Transpa-rent to
translu-cent

Fayalite Colorless Anhedral; Imperfect in one Vicinal twinning Very high, Strong, Biaxial negative with Cleavage traces ad Smaller axial angle. Rare mineral, it is an associate
(Fe2SiO4) to direction (010) with broad lamellae n>balsam Nγ- Nα= a large axial angle, crystals showing Higher indices of of iron ores.
yellowish 0.042-0.051 refraction and
Orthorhombic or The axial plane is cleavage are length- optically negative
neutral, (001). Dispersion, r>v slow character
Nα = show faint
1.805 – 1.835 pleochro-
ism;
Nβ =
1.838 – 1.877

Nγ =
1.847 – 1.886

Transparent to
translu-cent

HUMANITE GROUP

Chondro-dite Colorless Subhedral; Parallel to (001) On (001) Fairly High, Strong, Biaxial positive with a The extinction The Pleochroism One of the characteristic
(Mg,Fe)5 to n > balsam Nγ- Nα= large axial angle, The direction nearest the usually distinguishes minerals of the metamorphic
(SiO4)2(F,OH)2 yellowish axial plane is (010). trace of the twinning chondrodite from limestone
or 0.027 to 0.035 Dispersion, r>v weak is the faster ray olivine.
Monoclinic brownish;

Nα =
1.592-1.643

Nβ =
1.602-1.655

Nγ =
1.621-1.670

Transpa-rent

GARNET GROUP

Staurolite Pale Usually Inconspicuous Penetration twins High Rather weak Biaxial positive with a Length-slow Color, pleochroism, Found as metacrysts in
(2Al2SiO5.Fe(OH) yellow in euhedral of parallel to (010) with {023} or {232} Nγ- Nα=0.010-0.015 very large axial angle. and quartz inclusions metamorphic rocks.
2) thin short prismatic as twin-planes are n>balsam Tha axial plane is are distinctive Common associates are garnet,
sections. habit and six- common. The maximum {100}. kyanite, and sillimanite in
Orthorhombic Pleochrois sided cross interference color is Dispersion r>v weak adddition to quartz
m in section with Twinning rarely first-order yellow to
Nα = distinct the form {110} noted in thin red.
1.736-1.747 from and {010} sections
Nβ =1.741-1.754 nearly
Nγ =1.746-1.762 colorless
to yellow-
brown.

Sphene Almost Usually Often has Twins with {100} as Very high Extreme, Biaxial positive with NA Monazite is Widely distributed accessory Extinction: On
(titanite) colorless euhedral that prominent parting twin-plane are Nγ- Nα= 0.092 – moderate axial angle somewhat like mineral in grained rocks and account of strong
(CaTiSiO5) to neutral have acute (parallel to 221) sometimes present. n>balsam 0.141 sphene but has low metamorphic rocks. dispersion, sphene
in thin rhombic cross (parting directions Axial plane is {010} birefringenece and does not always
Monoclinic sections section or in are not parallel to Polysynthetic The interference weaker dispersion. Not very common as a detrital show complete
Angle β = 60°17’ irregular grains crystal outlines) twinning parallel to colors are high-order Acute bisectrix is The acute rhombic mineral except on southern extinction.
Some (221) may also be white but are usually almost normal to cross sections of shore of Lake Tahoe, where it Rhombic sections
Nα =1.887-1.913 varieties present. obscured by total (102) sphene are very was derived from granodiorites have symmetrical
Nβ =1.894-1.921 are reflection characteristic. Zircon extinction
Nγ =1.979-2.054 pleochroic Dispersion r>v strong compares
in thick birefringence but not
sections in crystal shape
Vesuvia-nite Colorless Occurs in Imperfect, parallel NA High Very weak to weak Usually uniaxial Length-fast in Anomalous Principle occurrence is in Extinction: Parallel
(Ca2Al2(OH,F)Si2 to neutral euhedral to {110} Nω- Nε=0.004-0.006 negative but may be columnar aggregates vesuvianite contact-metamorphic zones.
O7) in thin crystals in n>balsam biaxial with a small resembles zoisite and
sections. columnar Interference colors biaxial angle clinozoisite and is Associated with garnet,
Tetragonal aggregates, in are low first-order often difficult to diopside, wollastonite, epidote,
It may be anhedrawith gay, sometimes distinguish from and calcite.
Nε = 1.701-1.726 pleochroic polygonal normal, sometimes them
Nω =1.705-1.732 in thick outlines, and in anomalous gray- Also found with serpentine as a
Opt. (-) sections fine aggregates green, purple, or kind of pseudojade(californite)
deep blue.

Zircon Colorless Usually occurs absent NA Very high Very strong, Uniaxial but may be Length-slow Zircon is Widely distributed mineral in Entinction: Parallel
(ZrSiO4) to pale in minute Nε - Nω=0060-0.062 difficult to obtain on distinguished from granite and other grained
colors in crystals of short n>balsam account of the small apatite by stronger igneous rocks. In some syenites,
Tetragonal thin prismatic habit. Maximum size of the crystals birefringence and it is prominent enough to
section interference colors higher relief. It may furnish the name zircon syenite.
Nω =1.925-1.931 Often found as are usually pale tints be separated from It also occurs in certain
Nε =1.985-1.993 inclusions and of the fourth order, crushed rocks with metamorphic rocks.
Opt. (+) may be but minute crystals bromoform or other One of the most widespread
surrounded by show lower heavy liquids. and abundant detrital minerals
pleochroic interference colors unusually resistant to
halos destruction during erosion and
deposition.

Axinite Colorless Usually Imperfect in several NA Fairly high Rather weak, Biaxial negative with NA No very Occurs in the calcareous rocks Extinction:
(H(Fe,Mn)Ca2Al2 to pale anhedral with directions n>balsam Nγ- Nα= 0.010 – a large axial angle distinguishing of contact metamorphic zones. Oblique to
B(SiO4)4) violet in acute-angled 0.012 features and is rather The more common associates outlines and to
thin sections. A little higher than Dispersion, r<v or r>v difficult to recognize are in addition to quartz and cleavage traces
Triclinic sections. Inclusions are that of quartz in thin sections. Its calcite, garnet, and
It may frequent. birefringence is like hedenbergite. Also found in
Nα =1.678-1.684 show that of quartz, but its granites and granite pegmatites.
Nβ =1.685-1.692 pleochrois refractive indices are Comparatively rare mineral, but
Nγ =1.688-1.696 m in thick considerably higher. in limurite it forms more than
sections It is biaxial, whereas 50 percent of the rock.
quartz is uniaxial. It
has a bladed to
wedge habit
Iddingsite Brown in As far as In three directions NA High, n>balsam Strong, Biaxial, either NA Reddish brown color Found in basalts and basalt Extinction: Parallel
(MgO.Fe2O3.3Si thin known, always {100}, {001}, {010} Nγ- Nα=0.038-0.044 positive or negative, and lamellar porphyries as an alternation to cleavage traces
O2.4H2O) sections. occurs as at right angles. Of with a moderate structure together product of olivine. According to
Pleochrois partial or these, {100} has the The axial angle. The axial with the mode of Ross and Shannon, it is a Alteration:
Orthorhombic m slight complete most perfect maximuminterferenc plane is {010}. occurrence are deuteric or hydrothermal Iddingsiteissometi
to pseudomorphs cleavage e color should be in Dispersion, r>v or r<v distinctive for mineral and is not formed by mes found more
Nα =1.674-1.730 distinct. after olivine. third order, but the strong. iddingsite weathering. or less altered to
Nβ =1.715-1.763 Absoprtio It shows color of the mineral limonite or
Nγ =1.718-1.768 n: lamellar modifies or masks indefinite hydrous
ɣ or Z > β structure the interference iron oxide
2V=25° to 60° or color
Opt. (+) or (-) Y > α or X
a = α or X,
b = β or Y,
c = ɣ or Z

SILLIMANITE FAMILY
Andalu-site white, Two: good On {101}, rare Moderate weak biaxial elongate sections The moderately high Common in regional and contact
(Al2SiO5) grey, pink, prismatic [110] δ = 0.009 - 0.010 positive show parallel relief, low metamorphic rocks (hornfels,
sometime extinction and are birefringence and schists); may be associated with
Orthorhombic - s violet, length slow nearly square cross- cordierite, staurolite, garnet,
Dipyramidal green, section distinguish sillimanite, kyanite, chlorite,
yellow. andalusite from most muscovite, biotite, and
nα = 1.629 - minerals. It can be plagioclase feldspar; less
1.640 confused with common in granitic pegmatites
orthopyroxene, and granite.
nβ = 1.633 - however, these
1.644 usually have higher
birefringence colours
nγ = 1.638 - and are length slow.
1.650

Translu-cent,
opaque

Sillima-nite Colorless Prismatic Perfect none reported Moderate Moderate biaxial elongate sections higher relief, High pressure and high
Al2SiO5 or white crystals, {010} δ = 0.016 - 0.023 positive show parallel moderate temperature thermal aureoles
to gray, fibrous, acicular one single good extinction and are birefringence, around intrusive rocks. Similar
Orthorhombic – cleavage {010} length slow parallel extinction, conditions in regionally
Dipyramidal parallel to the and habit metamorphosed rocks.
length of crystals
nα = 1.653 -
1.661

nβ = 1.654 -
1.670

nγ = 1.669 -
1.684
KyaniteAl2SiO5 colourless Columnar; one perfect common Lamellar High Miderate biaxial inclined extinction higher relief, inclined commonn in pelitic schist,
, possibly fibrous; bladed cleavage on {100} on {100} 0.012-0.016 negative with a maximum extinction, optical gneiss and related metamoprhic
Triclinic pale blue and one good angle of 30°, length character and rocks.
non cleavage on {010}, a slow elongation
nα = 1.712 - pleochroic basal parting on
1.718 {001} may be
conspicuous cutting
nβ = 1.720 - at ~85°
1.725

nγ = 1.727 -
1.734
Mullite Colorless Prismatic to Good on [010] common on {100} Moderate Moderate Biaxial positive inclined extinction It occurs
Al6Si2O13 to pale acicular δ = 0.012 - 0.026 with a maximum Remelted Tertiary- as argillaceous inclusions
pink or crystals, angle of 30°, length aged clays. in volcanic rocks in the Isle of
Orthorhombic grey slow Mull, inclusions
Blue, elongate sections in sillimanite within a tonalite
nα = 1.642 - greenish- show parallel
1.653 blue, extinction and are
violet- length slow
nβ = 1.644 - blue, pale
1.655 blue, red
nγ = 1.654 -
1.679

Dumortie-rite Blue, As fibrous or Distinct on {100}, Common on {110}, High strong Biaxial- negative inclined extinction Dumortierite occurs
Al7BO3(SiO4)3O3 greenish- columnar poor on {110}; may produce δ = 0.027 with a maximum in pegmatite veins or Pegmatites, pneumatolytic, and
or Al6.5- blue, crystals; parting on {001} trillings angle of 30°, length in aluminium-rich metamorphic rocks.
Orthorhombic – violet- coarsely slow regionally
Dipyramidal blue, pale crystalline to metamorphosed
nα = 1.659 - blue, red. intimate rocks.
1.678 parallel
nβ = 1.684 - aggregates of
1.691 needles;
nγ = 1.686 - massive
1.692
Translucent,
Opaque
Topaz Colorless, Prismatic is perfect in one Common on {110}, Moderate Moderate Biaxial positive inclined extinction As a rock forming In igneous environments in
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2 white, crystals with direction, basal. δ = 0.010 with a maximum mineral in igneous granite pegmatites and in
yellow, faces striated angle of 30°, length rocks, pegmatites rhyolite. Occasionally in
Orthorhombic Occasiona parallel to long slow and rhyolites, sedimentary alluvial deposits.
lly dimension; also hydrothermal veins,
nα = 1.606–1.629 multicolor columnar, metamorphic rocks
ed. – compact, and greisens
nβ = 1.609–1.631 massive

nγ = 1.616–1.638

Transparent,
Translucent
EPIDOTE GROUP

Zoisite Colorless Columnar Perfect (010) Polysynthetic High, n>balsam Weak-moderate Biaxial positive with Crystals are length- FerrianZoisite is Rare in metamorphic rocks. Parallel in most
Ca2(Al,Fe)3(OH)( (thin &euhedral moderate axial angle. fast (2) length- distinguished from sections
SiO4)3 sections) Axial plane is (010) fast/slow clinozoisite by
Pink and (001).Dispersion normal interference
Orthorhombic &Pleochr is distinct either r>v colors.
oic or r<v
ny-na= Nonferrianzoisite is
.006-.018 distinguished from
clinozoiste by a
smaller angle and
deep blue anomalous
interference color.
Clinozoi-site Colorless Elongated Perfect (001) Polysynthetic with High n>balsam Weak to rather weak Biaxial positive with Length-slow and -Weaker -Deuteric mineral in igneous Extinction is
Ca2Al3(OH)(SiO4) and crystals or (001) large to very large length-fast in some birefringence rock parallel
3 nonpleoc columnar axial angle . Axial sections. -Lack of pleochroism -Product of dynamic
hroic aggregates. plane is (010). -Optically positive metamorphism
Monoclinic Dispersion r<v sign
Cross sections strong. -Distinctive yellow
ny-na= are six sided green interference
0.005-0.011 color
-arger biaxial angle
Epidote Colorless- Granular- Perfect (001) Twins with (100) as High. N>balsam Moderate-strong Biaxial negative with Some longitudinal -Stronger -Deuteric or late magmatic Extinction is
Ca2(Al,Fe)3(OH)( yellowish columnar twin plane a large axial angle. sections are length- birefringence than mineral in ignerous rock. parallel in
SiO4)3 green. aggregates. Optc axis is almost slow and length-fast clinozoisite -Dominant mineral in epidosite, elongate sectons
Somewha Pseudohexagon normal (001). Axial -Parallel extinction in a metamorphic epidote-quartz
Monoclinic t al plane (010). diopside and augite. rock.
pleochroic Dispersion r>v
Ny-na= 0.014- -Shale strata altered to epidote
0.045 found in Santa Rita, Mexico.
Piedmo-nite Axial , very much like Perfect (001) High, n>balsam Very strong Biaxial positive with a the direction of Distinctive color and -Occurs most part of schists and Extinction is
Ca2(Al,Fe,Mn)3( colors: to epidote large axial angle. faster or slower ray is pleochroism gneisses parallel in
OH)(SiO4)3 yellow, Axail plane is (010). difficult to -Altered quartz porphyrics elongate sections
orange, Dispersion r>v strong determine. -South Mountain Pennsylavania
Monoclinic red,
violet.
0.061-0.082 Pleochroic
: yellow-
orange,
amethyst-
violet,
carmine-
deep red
Allanite Brown Cerium bearing Imperfect parallel Twins with (100) as High n>balsam Strong Difficult to obtain Brown hornblende Associated in granite and quartz Usually parallel in
(Ca,FeII)2 and variety to (001) twin plane by parallel extinction matrix extinction
(Al,Ce,FeIII)3(OH) Pleochroic
(SiO4)3 from pale Cleavage is one Related to
brown- direction instead of magnesium
Monoclinic dark two orthite
brown

0.01-0.03
Lawso-nite Colorless euhedral,usuall Good parallel to Polysynthetic Rather high Moderate Biaxial positive with The long diagonal of Anomalous Occurs in metamorphic rocks Extinction: Parallel
H4CaAl2Si2O10 in thin y rhombic or (010) and (001) twinning with (110) n>balsam very large axial angle rhombic sections is interference color. such as glaucophaneschists. or synthetical
sections rectangular Fair parallel to (110) Axial plane is (010) parallel to the slower Also found in gabbros and
Orthorhombic and Dispersion r>v strong ray. Low birefringence diorite as the result of incipient
pleochroic than Prehnite. metamorphism
0.019 in very San Francisco Bay, California,
thick Italy, Corsica, New Caledonia.
sections Usually associated with
muscovite, glaucophane, garnet
and sphene.
Pumpel-lyite Colorless, Well (001), (!00) Cruciform twins Rather high Moderate Biaxial positive with a Y is parallel to the b If weakly colored, At Valley Ford, California, the Extinction: 22
Ca4(Mg,Fe,Mn)(A green, formedcrystal moderate with four n>balsam wide range 2V. axis. Z is 22 degrees pumpellyite may mineral occurs with crosstie, degrees on (100)
l,Fe,Ti)5 pale in cyclic twins individuals have Dispersion r<v clockwise from c axis. resemble clinozosite, lawsonite and glaucophane in cleavage
O(OH)3[Si2O7][Si brown, or or fibrous been reported but it has lower mica schist. Pumpellyite
O4]2.H2O yeallow. forms. Twins indicies of refraction replaces garnet. It is a
Pleochrois produce a and higher constituent of some low grade
Monoclinic m:colorles stellate birefringence. Iron metamorphosed schists, first
s, pale arrangement rich varieties may described in copper-bearing
0.014-0.020 yellowish rembleepidate but lavas of the Lake Superior
brown, may be distinguished regions.
pale by a blue green
greenish absorption color and
yellowbro positive axial angle
wn,
brownish
yellow

Beryl Colorless; large crystals of Imperfect parallel NA Moderate, Weak, Basal sections give a Crystals sections are Beryl resembles Principal occurrence of beryl is
Be3Al2(Si6O18) pismatic habit, to (0001) n>balsam Nω- N€=0.004 to negative uniaxial length-fast apatite, but the in granite pegmatites. It also
or small, 0.008 figure without any latter has higher found in mica schists and in
Hexagonal slender prisms rings indices of refraction. veins in limestones associated
and also in From quartz it is with albite.
N€= massive form; distinguished by its
1.564-1.590 length fast character
and optical sign.
Nω =1.568-1.598

Tourma-line Schorlite- Schorliteoccurs Absent but irregular NA High, Moderate to strong, Basal sections give a Crystals sections are schorlite shows the Schorlitereaches its maximum
(Na,Ca)(Mg,Li,Al, gray, slate in prismatic fractures are n>balsam Nω- N€= 0.022 to negative uniaxial length-fast strongest absorption development in granite
Fe2+)3Al6(BO3)3 blue,buff, crystals common 0.040 figure with one or normal to the plane pegmatites.
Si6O18(OH)4 olive. two rings of the polarizer.
Draviteusually occurs in
Hexagonal Dravite is ordinarily matamorphiclimestones.
Dravitecrystals Moderate, colorless to pale
N€= Dravite- are generally Nω- N€=0.19 to yellow.
1.628-1.658 colorles to large 0.025 Elbaiteoccurs in granite
Nω = pale pegmatites.
1.652-1.698 yellow
Elabite may be
N€= Spherulitic colorless, pink, plae
1.613-1.628 aggregates of Moderate, green or pale blue.
Nω =1.632-1.655 Elbaite- elbaite; Nω- N€=0.015 to
colorless 0.023
N€=1.615-1.629
Nω =1.635-1.655
Cordierite Colorless Pseudohexagon mperfect parallel to Pseudohexagonal Low relief Rather weak The figure is usually Elongate crystals are Cordierite is one of It is a typical Extinction: Parallel
(Iolite) in thin al of short (010), but may not crystals are biaxial negative with length-fast the few minerals that metamorphicmineral. Found in to crystal outlines
(Mg2Al4Si5O18) section. prismatic habit. show in sections. penetration twins Either a little less Nɣ - Nα – 0.007- a variable axial angle. is easily mistaken for gneiss and schists, often at the
Very thick These crystals Parting parallel to with {110} as twin- or little greater 0.011 Optically positive quartz. contact with persilicic igneous Inclusions:
Orthorhombic sections are penetration {001} that is due to plane. than balsam cordierite has been rocks. Sillimanite is a common Common; these
are twins. It also alteration Twin-lamellae are Maximum described in several It is biaxial with associate. It is a characteristic are often
Nα = pleochroic occurs in also often present interference colors localities. moderate to large mineral of hornfels. Rarely surrounded by
1.532-1.552 . anhedra and are usually about The axial plane is axial angle often found in igneous rocks as an pleochroic halos
anhedral straw yellow of the {001}. shows twinning endomorphic mineral.
Nβ = aggregates. first order (either penetration Alteration: Usually
1.536-1.562 Dispersion r<v weak. or polysynthetic) more or less
altered to
Nγ = sericite(pinite),
1.539-1.570 chlorite, talc, or
indefinite silicates.
Group 6| Wyenn David, Timothy Lazaro, Javis Liria, Gime Toledo

Muscovite Colorless Occurs in thin One direction (001); Fairly common Not marked, Strong, nγ-nα= 0.037 Sections parallel to Direction of cleavage Similar to talc but Common in metamorphic rocks.
to pale tabular crystals Very perfect Twin-plane = (110) n>balsam to 0.041 (001) give biaxial is always the slower higher axial angle. Found in some granites and
green or scaly Composition face = negative figure w/ ray. May be necessary to reaches its max. development in
aggregates or (001) moderate axial make a granite pegmatites.
Monoclinic shreds. angle; The extinction is microchemical test Common as a detrital mineral,
Dispersion, r>v weak parallel to cleavage for magnesium in especially in arkoses.
nα = 1.556 to traces, but is often order to differentiate
1.570; possible to find them.
nβ = 1.587 to angles as high as 2°
1.607; or 3°
nγ = 1.593 to
1.611;
Lepidolite Colorless Occurs in thin One direction (001); Common Fair, n>balsam Strong, nγ-nα= 0.045 Biaxial negative with Direction of the Similar to muscovite Occurs in granite pegmatites, in
tabular or short Perfect Twin-plane = (110) a moderate axial cleavage trace is in optical properties some high-temperature veins,
prismatic Composition face = angle, usually about always the slower but has a larger and occasionally in granites.
pseudo- (001) 40ᵒ; ray. extinction angle. Usual associates are tourmaline,
hexagonal Dispersion, r>v weak albite, topaz, beryl, spodumene,
Monoclinic crystals. Extinction angle and quartz.
measured against
nα = 1.560 cleavage traces
nβ = 1.598 varies from zero up
nγ = 1.605 to a maximum of
6°or 7°.

Phlogopite Pale Found in six- One direction (001); Though often Fair, n>balsam Strong, nγ-nα= 0.044 Basal sections, which Cleavage traces are Distinguished from Characteristic occurrence is in
brown to sided thick Perfect present, is not to 0.0047 also include cleavage parallel to the slower biotite by lighter metamorphic limestones.
colorless tabular to short conspicuous. flakes, give negative ray. color and weaker Common associates are
prismatic interference figure, absorption. Colorless chondrodite, spinel and
crystals. that is either biaxial Extinction is usually phlogopite has forsterite. Found in peridotites,
Monoclinic
with very small angle parallel to cleavage, smaller axial angle derived from serpentines, and
or practically but sometimes is as than muscovite. leucite-bearing rocks.
nα = 1.551 to
uniaxial. much as 5°.
1.562
Dispersion, r>n weak
nβ = 1.598 to
1.606
nγ = 1.598 to
1.606
Biotite Brown, Common in One direction (001); May be present Fair, n>balsam Strong, nγ-nα= 0.033 Sections parallel to Direction of cleavage Darker color and Occurs in igneous rocks of
yellow-ish euhedral six- Perfect Twin-plane = (110) to 0.059 (001), including traces is always the stronger absorption nearly all types. A prominent
brown, sided crystals cleavage flakes, give slower ray. than phlogopite. Has constituent of schists and
reddish that are usually negative biaxial smaller extinction gneisses and may be found in
brown, tabular in habit; figure with a very Extinction is parallel angle and different contact metamorphic zones.
olive also in lamellar small axial angle. to cleavage, cleavage than Common in detrital sediments.
Monoclinic
green, or aggregates. Dispersion, r>v or r<v sometimes may be as ordinary brown Is often bleached or otherwise
green. Plates are weak much as 3°. Bent hornblende. altered.
nα = 1.541 to
sometimes plates have wavy
1.579
bent. extinction position
nβ = 1.574 to
peculiar crinky
1.638
Monoclinic appearance is
nγ = 1.574 to
usually noticed in
1.638
biotite.

Prochlorite Green or Vermicular One direction Fair to Usually weak but Difficult to obtain, Cleavage trace are Distinguished from Principal constituent of some
greenish crystals with parallel to(001) moderately high, varies from very usually biaxial parallel to the faster clinochlore and chlorite schist often
Monoclinic in thin hexagonal cross n>balsam weak to rather weak, positive with a very ray pennine by higher accompanied by magnetite. A
section sections and in , Nγ-Nα= 0.001 to small axial angle, indices of refraction characteristic occurrence of
nα = 1.588 to fan-shaped 0.011 often practically Occurrence: prochlorite is in quartz veins
1.658 aggregates uniaxial Principal constituent and adularia, albite, sphene,
nβ = 1.589 to of some chlorite etc.
1.667 schist often
nγ = 1.599 to accompanied by
1.667 magnetite. A
characteristic
occurrence of
prochlorite is in
quartz veins and
adularia, albite,
sphene, etc.

Clinochlore Colorless The crystal Perfect in one Polysynthetic Fair, n>balsam Weak to rather weak, Biaxial positive with a Crystals showing Clino chlore is Occurs in chlorite schist and in
to green habit varies direction parallel to twinning is Nγ-Nα= 0.004 to variable axial angle. cleavage are usually distinguished from other metamorphic rocks.
Monoclinic in thin from thin to (001) common, according 0.011 The axial palne is length-past other chlorites by the Common associates are talc,
sections thick tabular to the mica law (010). Dispersion, r<v oblique extinction antigorite, chlondrodite, and
nα = 1.571 to with pseudo- The maximum and from pennine by phlogopite. It is also an
1.588 hexagonal extinction angle greater bifringence
nβ = 1.571 to outlines. measured from and dictictly biaxial alteration prduct of other
1.588 Crystals are cleavage varies from character silicates.
nγ = 1.576 to often bent. 2 to 9 degrees. Basal
1.597 sections are
practically isotropic
Penninite Green or Occurs in six- Perfect in one : Twinning parallel Fair, n>balsam Very weak, Nγ-Nα= Biaxial with such a Extinction: Parallel or Distinguished from Occurs as an alteration product
greenish sided crystals of direction parallel to to (001) with (001) 0.001 to 0.004; the small axial angle that almost parallel to other chlorites by of other silicates such as garnet.
Monoclinic in thin thick tabular (001) as the composition interference color is it appears to be cleavage traces and parallel extinction, The most typical specimens are
section habit face is so often an anomalous uniaxial. The optical to crystal outline very small axial found in seams and cavities
nα = 1.575 to characteristic that5 “Berlin blue”, a color sign is usually angle, and
1.582 Monoclinic this mode of not found on the positive , but Orientation: The anomalous
nβ = 1.576 to twinning is known interference color sometimes it is cleavage traces are interference colors.
1.582 as the ‘pennine chart negative. The axial parallel to either the He indices of
nγ = 1.576 to law’. Sice the palne is usually faster or slow ray refraction are lower
1.583 extinction is parallel to (010) than those of
practically parallel, prochlorite
this twinning is not
easily recognized in
thin sections

Chamosite Green, Oolitic with Nil to weak, up to Both cleavage traces Distinguished from Prominent constituent of oolitic
greenish pseudospheruli Moderate,n>bal about 0.007 to 0.008. and the concentric other chlorites by sedimentary iron ores that are
Monoclinic gray, gray, tic structure. sam. The index interfence colors are layers of ooliths are higher index of prominent in the jurassic of
pale Subhedral of refraction is in not appreciably length-slow refraction and from england, where they are usually
n cα = 1.635 brown to crystals of thick the anomalous galauconite by lower known as ironstones and are
almost tabular habit neighborhood of birefringence. commercially important low-
colorless are occasionally 1.635 Chamosite often grade ore.
in thin found. The resembles oolitic
sections ooliths often collophane, but the
have a portion presence of
of a chamosite chamosite crystals
crystal as a and the slightly
nucleus. higher index of
Chamosite is refraction will usually
sometimes distinguish it
massive with
aggregate
structure

Monoclinic
Stilpnomelane Brown Often found in Parallel to (001); Polysynthe-tic twins Moderate to Moderate to strong, Flake-like crystals are The angle between X Resembles biotite. Found in quartz-adularia veins,
and mica-ceous Perfect after the mica law. high, n>balsam nγ-nα= 0.030 to reported to give a and c is small. The pseudo-uniaxial in nepheline-syenite pegmatites
yellow to masses, but 0.119 uniaxial negative interference figure and probably occurs as an
green may occur in figure. Almost parallel and higher index of indtroduced mineral formed as
isolated extinction. refraction are a hydrothermal alteration
Monoclinic
crystals. distinctive. product.
Pleochroism is
nα = 1.612 to
ordinarily more
1.634
colorful than of
nβ = nγ = 1.700
biotite.
to 1.745
Chloritoid Green, Commonly Perfect in one Polysynthetic twins High, Weak to moderate, Figure is biaxial The crystals are Somewhat resembles Occurs in metamorphic rocks
green-ish occurs in direction (001); after the mica law n>balsam nγ-nα= 0.013 to positive with a lenth-fast. some of the such as mica and schists and
gray to pseudo- Imperfect parallel are very common. 0.016 moderate to rather chlorites, but the phyllites as metacrysts.
colorless hexagonal to (110) large axial angle. Extinction is almost relief is much higher
tabular crystals. Axial plane is (010). parallel up to ca. 20°. and the cleavage is
Monoclinic
Often shows a Dispersion r>v or r<v less perfect.
kind of
nα = 1.715 to “hourglass”
1.724 structure.
nβ = 1.719 to
1.726
nγ = 1.731 to
1.737
Talc Colorless Occurs in Perfect in one Fair, n>balsam Very strong, Nγ-Nα = Cleavage flakes give Cleavage traces and Talc greatly Talc is principal constituent of
in thin coarse to fine direction (001) 0.030 to 0.050; the a biaxial negative shreds are length- resembles muscovite talc schist and soap-stones. It is
Monoclinic sections platy or fibrous maximum figure with a small slow as in muscovite and pyrophyllite, but often a hydrothermal mineral
aggregates that interference colors axial angle. may often be formed at the expense of an
nα = 1.538 to often have a are upper third order. Dispersion, r>v Extinction is parallel ditinguished by the antigorite and tremolite in shear
1.545 more or less Sections are parallel distinct to the cleavage smaller axial angle, zones of serpentines. Dolomite
nβ = 1.575 to parallel to the cleavage give traces in the most provided an and magnesite are frequent
1.590 arrangement. very low first-order sections; in a few interference figure associates
nγ = 1.575 to Shreds and gray colors since Nγ- sections extinctions can be obtained
1.590 plates are often Nβ is almost nil is 2 to 3 degrees;
bent. Euhedral (0.000x) hence talc is
crystals of talc probably monoclinic
are unknown
Pyrophyllite Colorless occurs in Perfect in one Rather low to Strong, Sections parallel to Cleavage traces are Pyrophylllite usually Occurs in metamorphic rocks
in thin subhedral direction (001) moderate, Nγ-Nα = 0.048; the (001) or cleavage parallel to the slower has a peculiar and has often developed a
Monoclinic sections crystals that are n>balsam maximum flakes give a biaxial ray. Elongate elongate tabular hydrothermal alteration
tabular parallel interference color is negative figure with sections not showing habit. Muscovite and produst. Common associates
nα = 1.552 t0 (010) and upper third order. arather large axial cleavage are length- talc greatly resemble are andalusite, sillimanite,
nβ = 1.588 much Sections are parallel angle. The axial angle slow pyrophyllite. Talc has kyanite, lazulite, and alunite
nγ = 1.600 elongated. The to the cleavage give is parallel to (010) or a much smaller axial
crystals are gray or first-order the length of the Extinction is parallel angle; it may be
usually curved colors since Nγ-Nβ = crystals or almost parallel to necessary to make
and distorted. 0.012 cleavage traces and chemical,
A radial parallel to the microchemcical, or X-
structure is elongate sections ray test
common. It also
occurs in fine
aggregates
Cleavage:Perfec
t in one
direction (001)
Kaolinite Colorless Occurs in fine Perfect in one Minute crystals of Low, n>balsam. Weak, nγ – nα = Kaolinite is too fine- The cleavage traces It is distinguished by Found as weathering product of
Al2O32SiO2 H2O to pale mosaiclike direction parallel to Kaolinite does not 0.005. grained to give an and crystals are low relief and weak Igneous and Metamorphic rocks
yellow masses of {001}. appear to show In normal sections, interference figure. length slow. birefringence. From produced particularly by the
Triclinic crystals, in twinning. kaolinite gives gray The axial plane is dickite it its decomposition of feldspars. It is
veinlets and white normal to {010} and The angle of distinguished largely a prominent clay mineral in
nα = 1.561 replacing interference color. nearly parallel to extinction on {010} by its smaller sedimentary beds. At times it
nβ = 1.565 feldspars {100}. against the base is 1° extinction angle. may be a product of
nγ = 1.566 and other to 3.5°. hydrothermal alteration
mineral, and in associated with mineral
scalelike deposits. It may be formed in
individuals. situ under tropical conditions.
Occasionally
small plates
show
accordionlike
outlines.

Dickite Colorless Dickite occurs Perfect in one No apparent Low, n>balsam. Weak, nγ – nα = Ordinary thin The cleavage traces Is distinguished from Commonly found associated
Al2O32SiO2 to pale in small direction parallel to twinning. 0.006; the maximum sections yield poor and crystals are Kaolinite by slightly with metallic minerals in ore
2H2O yellow. pseudohexagon {001} interference colors interference figures length slow. higher birefringence, deposits. It is usually produced
 al flakelike are middle first or none at all. The larger crystals, and a by hydrothermal action and
Monoclinic crystals. order. axial plane is normal Angle of extinction large extinction may occur as a replacementof
to {010}. Dispersion r on {010} against the angle. quartz in quartzite. Large
nα = 1.560 < v. base varies from 15° masses have formed at Red
nβ = 1.562 to 20°. Mountain, Colorado.
nγ = 1.566
Halloysite Colorless. Occurs in Low, n slightly > Very weak, almost Is distinguished by Occurs in altered areas in
Al2O32SiO2 H2O extremely fine- balsam. isotropic. extremely weak limestone associated with
grained or birefringence, an diaspore, alunite, or gibbsite; in
Aggregates colloform index of refraction clay beds associated with
masses and almost equal to kaolinite; and probably in
n = 1.549 to commonly balsam and shatter extremely weathered portions
1.561 shows shatter cracks. It is of some shales. A large mass
cracks. Some commonly waas mined at Eureka, Utah.
masses associated with other
resemble clay minerals.
porcelain.

Montmorillonite Pale pink, Massive, Rather low, Moderate, nγ – nα = Individual crystals Most characteristic Is the chief constituent of
(Mg,Ca)O greenish claylike n<balsam. 0.021. Although are usually so small feature of bentonite, which is altered
Al2O35SiO2 or microcrystalline birefringence is and thin than figures montmorilloniteis volcanic ash. It is a common
nH2O colorless. aggregates in moderate, the cannot be obtained. microcrystalline constituent of shale, where it
the shape of crystals are usually so aggregates in the may be associated with illite.
Monoclinic shards. Nearly thin than that shape of shards. It Occasionally it occurs as an
always in interference colors in gives a strong {001} alteration material in pegmatite
nα = 1.492 extremely fine thin sections seldom X-ray powder dikes. It is one of the early
nβ = ……… scalelike go above the second reflection that is alteration minerals formed in
nγ = 1.513 crystals. order. substantially wall rock bordering mineral
displaced after deposits.
treatment with
ethylene glycol.
Illite Colorless Illite is found in Low, n>balsam. Rather strong, nγ – It occurs in matted It is a widespread constituent of
KAl2(OH)2 to irregular nα = 0.030 to 0.035, small flakes shale or soil. It forms during the
[AlSi3 (O,OH)10] yellowish matted flakes but the small, thin resembling kaolinite alteration of feldspathic
brown. that may be crystals may not yield (by a higher minerals, biotite, muscovite,
Monoclinic intercalated colors above the birefringence) and and other constituents. It is one
with flakes of second order. montmoriloonite (by of the most widespread
nα = 1.535 to montmorillonit higher indices of occurrence of the clay minerals.
1.570 e or kaolinite. refraction). It is
nβ = ……… distinguished from
nγ = 1.565 to muscovite by a lower
1.605 axial angle.
Palygorskite Colorless Found in Low, n<balsam. Moderate, nγ – nα = Extinction: Resembles Widespread in fullers earth
2MgO3SiO24H2O to pale compact fine 0.023. Matted aggregates montmorillonite in deposits of Georgia and Florida.
to Al2O35SiO2 yellow or aggregates. often tend to show a thin section. Electron Originally found in the Ural
6H2O green. more or less uniform micrographs exhibit a Mountains of Russia. Found in
mass extinction in striking rodlike France, Scotland, and Australia.
Monoclinic thin section. structure. The It is also reported to form by
absorptive capacity is hydrothermal action in
nα = 1.510 increased by “mountain leather”.
nβ = ……… compaction.
nγ = 1.533
Sepiolite Colorless Frequently Low, n<balsam. Rather strong, nγ – Extinction is Occurs in fibrous Found in contact metamorphic
2MgO3SiO2 to gray. fibrous and in nα = 0.015 to 0.020. approximately aggregates with veinlike mass associated with
nH2O aggregates. parallel with positive curved and matted intrusives in Yavapi Country,
Monoclinic elongation (length- fiber groups. Arizona. Considered by some to
slow)
nα = 1.490 to be, at times, a constituent of
1.506 clay.
nβ = ………
nγ = 1.505 to
1.526
Antigorite Pale Perfect May exhibit two- or Low 0.004-0.007 Shows a medium Oriented with (001) Show no major peak Common
Monoclinic Green, (001) three-fold twins sized negative 2v on parallel to the at 2Q(cu)19.2-19.4 in regional
nα = 1.555 - colourless rotated 60± about a basal section. foliation. and contact
1.567 an axis. metamorphosed
nβ = 1.560 - serpentinites
1.573
nγ = 1.560 -
1.573
Lizardite Green, Occasional low 0.006-0.008 Low or very low (001)//(100) Shows moderate Serpentinization
Triclinic Green {001} Perfect symmetrical peak at alteration of Mg
nα = 1.541 - blue, 19.2-19.4 degree. silicates
1.563 Yellow, below 75 deg. C.
nβ = 1.565 White.
nγ = 1.553 -
1.568
Chrysotile Clolourles May exhibit two- or Low, Moderate 0.013-0.017 Shows a medium Control by Shows moderate
Monoclinic or s and pale fibrous three-fold twins 0.001.(low or very sized negative 2v on octahedral layers symmetrical peak at Clinochrysotile, orthochrysotile,
orthorhombic green rotated 60± about low,) a basal section 19.2-19.4 degree. and parachrysotile are now
nα = 1.569 an axis polytypes of chrysotile.
nγ = 1.570
Prehnite Light rounded, 1,1;3,1 Fine lamellar moderate colour range (at obscured by the Cross foliation Is recognized by Most often in igneous basalt
Orthorhombic green, bubbly globular uneven 30µm thickness ) fibrous or composite fibrous or platy habit and diabase traprock
nα = 1.611 - dark masses. moderate nature of the grain and moderate relief. environments, usually
1.632 green, associated with zeolites isa
nβ = 1.615 - mint- diagnostic mineral of low grade.
1.642 green,
nγ = 1.632 - yellowish-
1.665 green,
Transpare
nt to
transluce
nt
Glauconite Blue- Perfect on {001}. Similar to Moderate ; Virtually impossible 0-H axis is inclined at Colour,morphology Altered from detrital biotite by
Monoclinic green. phlogopite but not higher if iron Moderate to strong to obtain due to the nearly right angles to and cryptocrystalline marine diagenesis in shallow
nα = 1.590 - Transluce observable content high. (δ = 0.020 - 0.032) fine size of the k+ ion structure are water under reducing
1.612 nt, glauconite,but large distinctive conditions; especially in
nβ = 1.609 - Opaque flakes are isotropic in sandstone.
1.643 basal section with a
nγ = 1.610 - good 2v seen
1.644
Volcanic Glass Colorless Usually Absent, but it may None Low to Usually nil, but some Alteration: Opal may be Glass often occurs as
Amorphous to gray or massive, show perlitic moderate, n varieties show weak Volcanic glass is mistaken for glass, independent igneous rock such
n = 1.45 to 1.55 reddish in sometimes parting. usually less than birefringence. often more or less but the refractive as obsidian, pumice, perlite or
thin vesicular, balsam but devitrified. The index of opal is pitchstone. Most colcanic glass
section. perlitic, etc. sometimes alteration products distinctly lower. corresponds to rhyolite in
often contains greater. The are usually rather composition. Galss is prominent
spherulites of index of indefinite, but constituent of vitophyre and
orthoclase, refraction sometimes feldspars, occurs in the groundmass of
microlites, increases as the tridymite, many volcanic rocks.
crystallites, silica decreses. cristobalite, or
microphenocry monmorillonite are
sts, and the result of
phenocrysts. devitrification.
Palagonite is always
the result of
alteration of glass
fragments.

Palagonite Usually Found as a rim Low to medium, n Nil to very weak. It is Alteration: It resembles opal, Is found in palagonite tufs and
SiO2, Al2O3, yellow to or zone around either less or a hydrogel, and the The palgonite cellophane and palagonite rock. It is formed by
Fe2O3, FeO, yellowish glass fragment greater than the weak birefringence formed from basaltic volcanic glass. The the hydration of fragmental
MgO, CaO, H2O brown, or in massive balsam. noted is probably due breccia fragments at index of refraction is basaltic glass. The glass
Amorphous but also form. It often to strain. Roseburg, Oregon, too high for opal and fragments are in whole or in
n = 1.47 to 1.63 brown shows an has been altered to nearly always too part converted to palagonite.
and apparent oolitic chlorite. low for cellophane. It
greenish structure that is is distinguished from
in thin due to filling of glass by high water
sections. microvesicles. content.