Pectolite
A variety of Wollastonite Group
What is Pectolite?
Pectolite is a unique material known for its unusual crystals that form extremely slender fibers radiating from the central point outwards. This crystal habit makes the material very delicate and fragile — it can be easily broken and dented when touched. Pectolite is highly after by collectors, particularly the blue variety called larimar.
Uses & Applications
Pectolite doesn't have any industrial uses but it is prized and collected by mineralogists and gemstone enthusiasts for its elongated and fragile crystals. Few of these crystals are gem-worthy, but it is a hard material and the better examples can occasionally be polished and incorporated into items like rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Healing Properties
Pectolite supposedly connects most strongly to the crown and third eye chakras and effectively harmonizes their energies. The belief is that this stone brings tranquility and wisdom to the possessor. Pectolite is also said to aid the removal of feelings of guilt that may be plaguing your life.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.595-1.645
- Birefringence
- 0.028-0.038
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
Pectolite Market Value Calculator
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Pectolite Localities Map
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Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Formation of Pectolite
It was first described in 1828 at Mt. Baldo, Trento Province, Italy and named from the Greek pektos – "compacted" and lithos – "stone". It occurs as a primary mineral in nepheline syenites, within hydrothermal cavities in basalts and diabase and in serpentinites in association with zeolites, datolite, prehnite, calcite and serpentine. It is found in a wide variety of worldwide locations.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, white, pale pink, greenish, pale blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5 - 5
- Density
- 2.87 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Silky, Sub-vitreous
- Crystal System
- Triclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NaCa2Si3O8(OH)
- Elements
- Ca, H, Na, O, Si
Also Known As
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