Eudialyte

Crystal system · Trigonal

Eudialyte is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.

Eudialyte specimen
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky · CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

About Eudialyte

Eudialyte is classified as a silicate mineral in the eudialyte group and has the chemical formula Na15Ca6(Fe,Mn)3Zr3[Si25O73](OH,H2O,Cl)3. It crystallizes in the trigonal system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.

Identification & care

Eudialyte typically forms tabular crystals; massive; disseminated grains in alkaline rocks. Its color range is broad, including red, pink, brownish red, orange, and yellow (vibrant). The luster is vitreous to greasy, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is imperfect. The fracture is uneven, which aids identification.

Collector context

Collector notes

For collectors, Eudialyte is a benchmark crystalline species. Eudialyte is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Yunnan, Jiangxi, Liaoning, Hebei.

Frequently asked questions

What is Eudialyte?

Eudialyte is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.

What crystal system does Eudialyte belong to?

Eudialyte crystallises in the Trigonal crystal system.

Where is Eudialyte found?

Notable localities for Eudialyte include Kola Peninsula.

References & databases

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