Mineralpedia Details for Pectolite

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Pectolite

Named for the Greek word pektos, meaning “compact,” in reference to its resistance to being crushed. Pectolite is a widespread mineral with many localities including in Italy, Germany, Scotland, Russia, the United States, Canada, India, Morocco, and South Africa, to name just a few. Pectolite occurs in nepheline syenite, as a hydrothermal mineral in basalts and diabases, in serpentinites, peridotites and calcium-rich rocks. Pectolite can be triboluminescent, produces light when broken.

Ref. Handbook of Mineralogy, Anthony et al (1995) and MSA at http://www.handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/pectolite.pdf

Formula: NaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH)
Crystal System: Triclinic
Crystal Habit: Acicular, Globular, Radial
Cleavage: Perfect, Perfect, None
Luster: Vitreous - Silky
Color: white, gray, light pink, light green
Streak: white
Class: Triclinic - Pinacoidal
Fracture: Splintery
Hardness: 5
WebMineral: View Pectolite
Mindat: View Pectolite

Pectolite from Sowerbutt's quarry, Prospect Park, Passaic Co., New Jersey, United States

Chalky white, soft spheroidal crystals to 1cm.

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Pectolite from Paterson, Passiac Co., New Jersey, United States

Snow white radial fans of Pectolite to 2.5cm.

Snow white crystals of Pectolite to 2cm.

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Pectolite from Jeffrey mine, Asbestos, Quebec, Canada

A large group of long acicular crystals of white Pectolite. If you buy this specimen, be extremely careful when handling it. These sharp crystals are like splinters, which will easily penetrate your skin. Please wear gloves when handling.