Alunogen | |
Chemical Formula |
Al2(SO4)3·17H2O |
Species |
Sulfates |
Crystal System |
Triclinic |
Mohs Scale |
1-2 |
Color |
Colorless in crystals, aggregates white, or pale yellow or red from impurities. |
Streak |
White |
Luster |
Vitreous, Silky |
Refractive Index |
n = 1.473 n = 1.474 n = 1.480 |
Diaphaneity |
Transparent |
Crystal Habit:Crystals rare, small; prismatic or with a hexagonal outline about ; very complex, with about 60 forms noted. Commonly as delicate fibrous masses or crusts; effloresences; massive, fibrous to 5mm. | |
Geological Setting:Forms by reaction of sulfates from decomposing sulfides with aluminous minerals in shales and slates; in gossan or altered wall rock of pyritic deposits in arid regions; in coal seams; in relatively low-temperature fumaroles. |