mineral
Feldspar (with Quartz / Iron Staining)
Potassium Feldspar / Plagioclase (KAlSi3O8 - NaAlSi3O8 to CaAl2Si2O8)
Mohs hardness 6; reddish-orange, pink, and white tones due to hematite/iron staining; vitreous to pearly luster; distinct cleavage planes at nearly 90 degrees; specific gravity ~2.56-2.76
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 6; reddish-orange, pink, and white tones due to hematite/iron staining; vitreous to pearly luster; distinct cleavage planes at nearly 90 degrees; specific gravity ~2.56-2.76
Formation & geological history
Formed primary in igneous rocks such as granite or pegmatites, as well as metamorphic environments. Staining occurs secondary from iron-rich mineral oxidation in weathering zones.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in ceramics, glassmaking, fillers in paint and plastics, and as an ornamental gemstone or educational specimen.
Geological facts
Feldspars are the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's continental crust, making up about 60% of all terrestrial rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive blocky cleavage, moderate hardness (scratches glass, not scratched by steel knife), and characteristic flesh-pink to reddish-brown coloration from feldspar composition or iron oxides.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock