Albite is a plagioclase feldspar, feldspars that form as a solid-solution series from albite to anorthite. Albite is the sodium-rich end member of this series. Plagioclase feldspars are found all over the world as they are very common rock forming minerals. The name albite comes form the Latin word for white, albus.
| NaAlSi3O8 |
|
| Tectosilicate |
|
| Triclinic |
|
| -1 |
|
| 6 |
|
| 2.62 |
|
| {001} perfect, {010} good |
|
| Conchoidal |
|
| Colorless, white, gray |
|
| White |
|
| Vitreous, pearly |
|
| Translucent/opaque |
|
| Blocky, equant |
|
| Notable Localities: |
Brazil; Switzerland and Labrador, Canada |
| Uses: |
Ceramics, sometimes as a gem |
Specimens:
