Elaeolite

Elaeolite is a dull, greenish, grey or blue variety of Nepheline. It is a massive material with oily or greasy lustre.

The name Elaeolite was given by M. H. Klaproth. It derives from Greek words for oil and stone, referring to the presence of numerous microscopic inclusions of other minerals, possibly augite or hornblende. These enclosures produce chatoyancy.

Elaeolite is cut and stones may be chatoyant.
General Information
A variety or type of:Nepheline
Physical Properties of Elaeolite
Mohs Hardness5.5 to 6
Arthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Specific Gravity2.55 to 2.67
Arthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Optical Properties of Elaeolite
ChatoyancyChatoyant
Michael O’Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006)
Colour
Colour (General)Red, green, brown or grey.
Michael O’Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006)
LustreGreasy
Arthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Crystallography of Elaeolite
Crystal SystemHexagonal
Arthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
HabitMassive
Arthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Further Information
Mineral information:Elaeolite information at mindat.org
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