Zeolite mineral forming slender needle-like prismatic crystals. Name derives from natron sodium due to its sodium content. Color: Colorless, white, yellowish. Luster: Vitreous to pearly. Streak: White. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions. Hardness: 5-5.5. Transparency: Transparent to translucent. Crystal system: Orthorhombic. Chemical formula: Na₂Al₂Si₃O₁₀·2H₂O. Specific gravity: 2.2-2.3. Formation: Forms in cavities of basaltic lavas from late-stage hydrothermal fluids rich in sodium. Common geological settings: India, Russia, USA New Jersey , Germany; found in vesicles of basalts and phonolites. Common look-alikes and related entries: Scolecite, Mesolite, Aragonite.
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These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.
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Last updated
2026-03-30T14:36:53.368389+00:00
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Published; not independently peer-reviewed
IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.
Zeolite mineral forming slender needle-like prismatic crystals. Name derives from natron sodium due to its sodium content.
How can you identify Natrolite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Colorless, white, yellowish; lustre: Vitreous to pearly; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 5-5.5; cleavage: Perfect in two directions; crystal system: Orthorhombic; transparency: Transparent to translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Natrolite form?
Forms in cavities of basaltic lavas from late-stage hydrothermal fluids rich in sodium.
Where is Natrolite commonly found?
India, Russia, USA New Jersey , Germany; found in vesicles of basalts and phonolites.
What is Natrolite commonly confused with?
Natrolite may be confused with Scolecite, Mesolite, Aragonite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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