Merlinoite

merlinoite

phillipsite

apophyllite

chabazite

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Formula: K5Ca2(Si23Al9)O64.24H2O tectosilicate (framework silicate), zeolite group
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Specific gravity: 2.14 to 2.27 measured, 2.21 calculated
Hardness: 4½
Streak: White
Colour: Colourless to white
Common impurities: Fe
Environments:

Volcanic igneous environments
Pegmatites
Sedimentary environments
Basaltic cavities

Merlinoite is a secondary mineral occuring in cavities in basalt, in pegmatites, in pyroxene-rich volcanic ejecta, and as a diagenetic alteration in volcanic ash falls. Associated minerals include phillipsite, apophyllite, chabazite and calcite. (HOM).

The type locality is the Cupaello Quarry, Santa Rufina, Rieti, Rieti Province, Lazio, Italy.

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