Mineral Species: Pectolite

Chemical Formula: NaCa2Si3O8(OH)

Chemical Name: Sodium Calcium Silicate Hydroxide

Mineral Class: Inosilicates

Mineral Notes:  Pectolite is sometimes confused with several other similar looking minerals including okenite, wollastonite and arthinite. It is often found in cavities and fissures in basalts and is therefore frequently associated with Zeolites. A particualry beautful sky-blue variety has been discovered in the Bahamas and Domican Republic, and when polished to a high gloss, given the name Lorimar.

Description: A rosette of Pectolite embedded in a matrix of white Quartzite. Radiating crystals can easily be seen, having a yellow-green colouration. Other notable features are the vitrous luster and an unusual greasy feel. A very interesting specimen of a relatively rare silicate.

Location: Lovorenzo Massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia.