Astrophyllite specimen rare mineral (148)

Astrophyllite is a mineral of the silicate class, a titanium-carbon silicate with a combined layered-ribbon crystal structure. It is named from the Greek word "astra" — a star. It forms elongated lamellar crystals embedded in the rock and spectacular stellate, tangled fibrous or parallel fibrous aggregates. Decomposes in sulfuric and hydrochloric acids. It has no great practical significance, but it is a valuable collector's mineral. Stone-cutting products and souvenirs are sometimes made from the rock containing brightly shiny needle-like and star-shaped inclusions of astrophyllite.

Formula: K₂NaFe²⁺₇Ti₂(Si₄O₁₂)₂O₂(OH)₄F

Dimensions: 65*70*60  mm

Origin: Russia, Khibiny

Hardness: 3-3,5