NaSi
Natrosilite is another rare species at MSH.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Color is usually white.
Luster is silky.
Diaphaneity is transparent to translucent.
Crystal System is monoclinic;
Crystal Habits include elongated crystals to 0.5mm
Cleavage {100} is micaceous, {001} is distinct and {011} is poor.
Fracture is even.
Hardness is (??).
Specific Gravity is approximately 2.5 g/cm
Streak is white.
Associated Minerals include revdite.
Distinguishing Features: Crystal habit.
Origin: Named in 1975 for its composition: a sodium silicate.
CLASSIFICATION:
Dana System
# 74.3.5.1
Strunz Classification
# VIII/H.05-10
REFERENCES:
Dana 8:1564-1565 (1997)
DISTRIBUTION AND RARITY AT MONT SAINT-HILAIRE:
MSH
¤¤¤