What is Chabazite?
Chabazite is a zeolite mineral that forms transparent to pastel rhombohedral crystals and attractive cavity specimens.
Mineralogy and structure
The reference formula is (Ca,Na2,K2)Al2Si4O12·6H2O. Chabazite belongs to the silicates and has a trigonal crystal system. Chabazite has a hydrated open aluminosilicate framework. Several compositional members are recognised, so the exact suffix such as chabazite-Ca or chabazite-Na may matter in specialist descriptions.
Colour and appearance
Typical colours include colourless, white, pink, orange, salmon. Crystal habit, lustre, transparency and matrix association are often as diagnostic as colour.
Formation and localities
Chabazite forms in or is associated with vesicles and fractures in basaltic volcanic rocks during low-temperature alteration. Important documented localities include Scotland, Iceland, India, Nova Scotia and the Deccan basalt region.
Collecting and care
Chabazite is best kept as a labelled collector or reference specimen. Protect fragile crystals from impact and prolonged humidity changes. Lead-, arsenic-, chromium- and cobalt-bearing minerals should not be cut, ground or used in jewellery.
