Okenite
| Colour | White, Yellow, Blue |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | –5 |
| Lustre | Vitreous, pearly |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Triclinic |
| Transparency | Transparent, translucent |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {001} |
| Fracture | Splintery |
| Chemical formula | CaSi 2 O 5 ·2H 2 O |
| Specific gravity | 2.28–2.33 |
What is Okenite?
Okenite (CaSi2O5·2H2O) is a silicate mineral that is usually associated with zeolites. It most commonly is found as small white "cotton ball" formations within basalt geodes. These formations are clusters of straight, radiating, fibrous crystals that are both bendable and fragile. It also belongs to the family of the calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H) commonly found in hardened cement paste. In cement chemist notation (CCN) it is noted as CaO·2SiO2·2H2O and abbreviated as CS2H2.
How to identify Okenite
- Lustre: Vitreous, pearly.
- Hardness: Mohs –5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Triclinic crystal system.
Okenite in different forms
Stones often confused with Okenite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Okenite?
Okenite is Mohs –5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Okenite?
Okenite is typically white, yellow, blue (White, may show slightly yellow or blue tint).