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Home > Thaumasite

Thaumasite

Photo By John Krygier

Thaumasite

Thaumasite

Thaumasite

Thaumasite

Thaumasite

A species of Ettringite Group

Thaumasite is a rare mineral that occurs in the form of translucent or transparent hexagonal crystals. Although very attractive, thaumasite is quite soft and fragile, so you will usually find it cut into cabochons. Its name comes from the Greek word "thaumazein," meaning "to be surprised" or "to wonder," which refers to its unusual chemical compositions.

Hardness:

3.5

Density:

1.88 - 1.9 g/cm³

General Info About Thaumasite

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Physical Properties of Thaumasite

Luster

Vitreous

Diaphaneity

Transparent to translucent

Colors

Colourless, white

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

Tenacity

Brittle

Cleavage

Indistinct

Fracture

Subconchoidal

Streak

White

Crystal System

Hexagonal

Hardness

3.5 , Soft

Density

1.88 - 1.9 g/cm³, Obviously Light Weight

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Chemical Properties of Thaumasite

Chemical Classification

Sulfates

Formula

Ca₃(SO₄)Si(OH)₆ · 12H₂O

Elements listed

C, Ca, H, O, S, Si

Common Impurities

Al, Fe, Mg

Optical Properties of Thaumasite

Refractive Index

1.467-1.505

Birefringence

0.038

Optical Character

Uniaxial negative

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Rarity

Rare

Characteristics of Thaumasite

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Formation of Thaumasite

It occurs as a hydrothermal alteration mineral in sulfide ore deposits and geothermal alteration of basalt and tuff. It occurs with zeolites, apophyllite, analcime, calcite, gypsum and pyrite.

Cultural Significance of Thaumasite

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Etymology of Thaumasite

It was first described in 1878 in Sweden and named from the Greek, "thaumazein", to be surprised, in reference to its unusual composition with carbonate, sulfate and hydroxysilicate anions.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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What is thaumasite sulphate attack?

What does thaumasite occur with?

What is the hardness of thaumasite?

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