Montmorillonite | |
Chemical Formula |
(Na,Ca)0.33(Al,Mg)2(Si4O10)(OH)2·nH2O |
Species |
Silicates |
Crystal System |
Monoclinic |
Mohs Scale |
1-2 |
Specific Gravity |
1.7-2 |
Color |
White, pale pink, blue, yellow, red, green |
Streak |
white |
Luster |
Dull, Earthy |
Refractive Index |
n = 1.485 - 1.535 n = 1.504 - 1.550 n = 1.505 - 1.550 |
Diaphaneity |
Translucent |
Cleavage |
Perfecton |
Fracture |
Irregular/Uneven |
Crystal Habit:compact masses of lamellar or globular microcrystalline aggregates | |
Geological Setting:Alteration product of volcanic tuffs and ash. Late-hydrothermal formation in various rocks. |