Xonotlite

Xonotlite
Combination piece with radial fibrous inesite and xonotlite
General
Category Inosilicates
Formula
(repeating unit)
Ca6Si6O17(OH)2
Strunz classification 9.DG.35
Dana classification 66.3.1.1
Crystal system Monoclinic
Crystal class Prismatic (2/m)
(same H-M symbol)
Space group P2/a

Xonotlite is a mineral with the chemical formula Ca6Si6O17(OH)2. It crystallizes in the monoclinic - prismatic crystal system with typically an acicular crystal form or habit. It can be colorless, gray, light gray, lemon white, or pink. It is transparent with a vitreous to silky luster. It leaves a white streak. Xonotlite is rated 6.5 on the Mohs Scale of hardness. It was first described in 1866 and named for its occurrence in Tetela de Xonotla, Puebla, Mexico. It occurs as veins in serpentinite and contact metamorphism aureoles.

Xonotlite from Italy.

References

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