Photo of Albite in Processed & Rough Form
Albite is a mineral with a hardness of 6 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness [?]. These Triclinicly structured gems are made of sodium calcium aluminosilicate, their full chemical compound being (Na,Ca)AlSi3O8.
Albite is a member of the feldspar species as is predominantly a white or whitish mineral. A fine Albite gem will be colorless (mostly), or colored similar to moonstone.
Some of the better specimens have been found in upper North America including the United States and Canada
In 1815 Albite was given the Latin name albus which literally means white.
Albite astrological sign is that of Aquarius.
What is Albite?
Albite is a sodium-rich plagioclase feldspar mineral, typically white or colorless. Its name comes from Latin "albus" meaning white. It's one of the most common minerals in Earth's crust.
Is Moonstone related to Albite?
Yes, some moonstones are actually albite varieties showing adularescence (the floating light effect). While most commercial moonstone is orthoclase feldspar, some premium pieces are albite.
Where is it found?
Major deposits exist in Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. Fine specimens come from alpine clefts in the European Alps. Also commonly found in pegmatites worldwide.
What are its uses?
Used in ceramics and glass manufacturing. Gem-quality specimens are cut for collectors. Some varieties are used in jewelry, especially those showing optical effects. Important in geological studies.
How can I identify Albite?
Look for white to colorless crystals, perfect cleavage in two directions, hardness of 6-6.5, and striations (fine parallel lines) on cleavage surfaces. Often shows twinning visible under magnification.
What varieties exist?
Pure albite is white/colorless, but can be green (called Maw-sit-sit when mixed with jade), blue (called Peristerite), or show adularescence (Peristerite Moonstone). Cleavelandite is a platy variety.
The specific gravity [?] for Albite is 2.64, its refractive index [?] is 1.54-1.55, and its double refraction [?] is 0.0009.
History
While Albite has surely been found and used for centuries, it was not scientifically cataloged until 1815.
Industrial Usages
Albite is ground finely and used to provide rigidity in modern ceramics.
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