What is Faujasite-Na?
Faujasite-Na is a sodium-dominant zeolite with a large three-dimensional framework, open cavities and a strong connection to altered volcanic rocks and zeolite research.
Mineralogy and structure
Reference formula: Na2-3.5Al3.5Si12.5O32·12H2O. Faujasite-Na has a hydrated, highly porous framework with composition and water content that vary. The structure image uses a dehydrated sodium faujasite-type COD model as a representative framework, not as a claim that every natural specimen has identical hydration.
Colour and appearance
Typical colours include colourless, white, yellow, pink. The usual cubic, octahedral, granular habit and vitreous, pearly lustre are useful descriptive features, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and localities
Faujasite-Na forms in or is associated with low-temperature alteration of volcanic tuffs, basaltic cavities and alkaline hydrothermal environments. Important documented localities include the United States, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Japan and other volcanic regions.
Collecting and care
Zeolite framework and water content are sensitive to heat and dehydration; protect from strong heating, acids and abrasion.
Open framework and collecting context
Faujasite-Na is interesting in a collection because its value is not only visual: the open framework explains why zeolites matter in geology and materials science. The association between cavities and openness can inspire symbolic descriptions, but it remains metaphorical.
Traditional associations
There is no established zodiac assignment for Faujasite-Na. If a crystal guide gives it one, treat that as a variable cultural association rather than a scientific fact.
