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Analcime

Crystal system · Isometric

Analcime is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with notable Chinese occurrences.

Analcime specimen
Photo: Ivar Leidus · CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

About Analcimeextended article

Mohs 5–5.5
Vickers (~) 540 HV
Knoop (~) 620 HK
Geological setting
Volcanic
Element composition by mass

Formula: NaAlSi₂O₆·H₂O · molar mass: 220.15 g/mol

O 50.87%
Si 25.51%
Al 12.26%
Na 10.44%
H 0.92%

Computed from atomic weights (IUPAC 2021). Site-occupancy groups (Fe,Mn) split equally.

Mohs Hardness 5–5.5

Analcime sits at 5–5.5 on the Mohs scale — can be scratched by a steel knife.

Colors:
Streak
White
Crystal system
Isometric (Cubic)
SilicatesSilicates (Tectosilicates — Zeolites)
TL;DR · 1 min read
Analcime (NaAlSi₂O₆·H₂O) is a sodium zeolite forming distinctive trapezohedral (24-sided) crystals — one of the diagnostic "cube-like" zeolites. Named from Greek "analkis" (weak) for its pyroelectric properties.

Analcime (NaAlSi₂O₆·H₂O) is a sodium zeolite forming distinctive trapezohedral (24-sided) crystals — one of the diagnostic “cube-like” zeolites. Named from Greek “analkis” (weak) for its pyroelectric properties. Mt. Saint-Hilaire (Quebec) and Croft Quarry (England) yield iconic specimens. Forms in alkaline igneous rocks and basalt vesicles.

More minerals to explore

About Analcime

Analcime is a silicate mineral in the analcime group and has the chemical formula Na[AlSi2O6]·H2O. It crystallizes in the isometric system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.

Identification & care

Crystals commonly develop as trapezohedra (icositetrahedral — 24-faced 'ball' shape, highly characteristic); granular; massive. Its color range is broad, including colorless, white, pale gray, yellowish, pinkish, and greenish. The luster is vitreous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is imperfect on {100}. The fracture is subconchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.

Collector context

Collector notes

For decorative mineral collectors, Analcime is appreciated for its visual character. Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Dexing Cu-Mo-Au ore field and Bayan Obo deposit, among others.

Frequently asked questions

What is Analcime?

Analcime is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with notable Chinese occurrences.

What crystal system does Analcime belong to?

Analcime crystallises in the Isometric crystal system.

Where is Analcime found?

Notable localities for Analcime include Mont Saint-Hilaire.

References & databases

Mindat.org is the world’s largest open mineralogy database. Our descriptions are written independently and fact-checked.