description Leucite Overview
Leucite is a potassium aluminium silicate mineral with the chemical formula KAlSi2O6 and belongs to the feldspathoid group. It forms in silica-poor, potassium-rich volcanic rocks and is especially associated with alkaline volcanic districts such as the Roman volcanic province of Italy. The mineral is commonly gray-white, white, or pale gray and may occur as crystals or granular masses. Transparent specimens can be cut as gemstones, but leucite's low hardness and tendency to alter limit its durability and make faceted stones uncommon.
help Leucite FAQ
What is leucite?
Leucite is a potassium aluminum silicate mineral with the formula KAlSi2O6. It is a feldspathoid that forms in silica-poor, potassium-rich volcanic rocks.
Where is leucite commonly found?
Leucite is especially associated with alkaline volcanic districts such as the Roman volcanic province of Italy. It can occur in lava and other potassium-rich igneous rocks.
How is leucite different from quartz?
Leucite forms in silica-poor rocks, while quartz is a silica-rich mineral. Because of that chemical relationship, leucite and free quartz generally do not crystallize together in the same magma.
What kind of mineral is leucite?
Leucite is a feldspathoid, a group of minerals related to feldspars but formed where the magma has relatively little silica. Its crystal structure and composition reflect that volcanic setting.
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