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Rectangular Carletonite Crystal

The Mineral carletonite




Carletonite is a rare blue mineral that is very similar to Apophyllite, and often classified as a member of the Apophyllite group. It is usually multicolored with blue and white zones, and the blue can be a very intense shade. Carletonite was named after Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, where this mineral was first recognized.
Chemical Formula KNa4Ca4Si8O18(CO3)4(OH,F) · (H2O)
Composition Hydrous carbonate, potassium sodium calcium fluoro-hydroxyl-silicate
Color Light to deep blue. Often color zoned with blue and white/colorless zones. May also be white with light blue splotches. Rarely pink or light orange. Solid blue crystals often display pleochroism.
Streak White
Hardness 4 - 4.5
Crystal System Tetragonal
Crystal Forms
and Aggregates		 Crystals are often prismatic rectangular crystals or in groups of such crystals. Crystals terminations are usually flat but occasionally have a pyramidal angle. Also tabular, in flattened cleavage fragments, and in crude masses of distorted crystals.
Transparency Transparent to translucent
Specific Gravity 2.4 - 2.5
Luster Vitreous to greasy. Pearly on cleavage surfaces.
Cleavage 1,1
Fracture Uneven
Tenacity Brittle
In Group Silicates; Phyllosilicates
Striking Features Color, perfect cleavage, pleochroism and unique locality.
Environment In hornfels and siliceous marble xenoliths in contact with nepheline syenite.
Rock Type Metamorphic
Popularity (1-4) 3
Prevalence (1-3) 3
Demand (1-3) 1


Carletonite AUCTIONS



USES
Carletonite is rare collectors mineral, and is especially represented by Mont Saint Hiliaire collectors as well as thumbnail collectors.

NOTEWORTHY LOCALITIES
Carletonite is currently found in only one locality in the world - in the Poudrette quarry in Mt. Saint Hilaire, Quebec, Canada.

COMMON MINERAL ASSOCIATIONS
Quartz, Calcite, Pectolite, Apophyllite, Fluorite, Aegirine, Arfvedsonite

DISTINGUISHING SIMILAR MINERALS
Halite - Has salty taste, occurs in different mineral environment.
Cordierite - Occurs in different environment.


carletonite PHOTOS
 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
 
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