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Eudialyte

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Eudialyte, a red/pink/brown/blue mineral
Robert M. Lavinsky · CC BY-SA 3.0
ColourRed, Pink, Brown, Blue
Mohs hardness5–6
LustreVitreous
StreakWhite
Crystal systemTrigonal
TransparencyTransparent to translucent
CleavageDistinct on {0001} imperfect on {110}
FractureUneven
Chemical formulaNa 15 Ca 6 (Fe,Mn) 3 Zr 3 SiO(O,OH,H 2 O) 3 (Si 3 O 9 ) 2 (Si 9 O 27 ) 2 (OH,Cl) 2
Specific gravity2.74–3.10

What is Eudialyte?

Eudialyte, whose name derives from the Greek phrase Εὖ διάλυτος, eu dialytos, meaning "well decomposable", is a somewhat rare, nine-member-ring cyclosilicate mineral, which forms in alkaline igneous rocks, such as nepheline syenites. Its name alludes to its ready solubility in acid.

How to identify Eudialyte

Can you spot Eudialyte?

Test yourself on photos of Eudialyte and lookalikes:

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Eudialyte?
Eudialyte is Mohs 5–6 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Eudialyte?
Eudialyte is typically red, pink, brown, blue (Red, magenta, brown; also blue and yellow).