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.
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 Hardness | 5.5 to 6, Gemstones (2009) |
| Specific Gravity | 2.55 to 2.67, Gemstones (2009) |
| Optical Properties of Elaeolite | |
| Chatoyancy | Chatoyant, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) |
| Colour | |
| Colour (General) | Red, green, brown or grey., Gems, Sixth edition (2006) |
| Lustre | Greasy, Gemstones (2009) |
| Crystallography of Elaeolite | |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal, Gemstones (2009) |
| Habit | Massive, Gemstones (2009) |
| Further Information | |
| Mineral information: | Elaeolite information at mindat.org |