Lecontite

lecontite

thenardite

mascagnite

guano

Images

Formula: (NH₄)Na(SO₄)(H₂O)₂
Valence: (N^3-H₄)Na(S⁶⁺O₄)(H₂O)₂
Hydrated sulphate
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Specific gravity: 1.745 measured, 1.747 calculated
Hardness: 2 to 2½
Streak: White
Colour: Colourless, colourless in transmitted light
Solubility: Soluble in water
Environments

Cave deposits

Localities

At the type locality, Las Piedras Cave, Villa de San Antonio, Comayagua Department, Honduras, lecontite occurs as an early product of the breakdown of bat guano. Associated minerals probably include thénardite and mascagnite (HOM).
Lecontite from Las Piedras Cave - Image

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