mineral
K-feldspar
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase / Microcline, KAlSi3O8)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, or reddish-brown, with vitreous to pearly luster and two directions of good cleavage at nearly 90 degrees.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically pink, white, or reddish-brown, with vitreous to pearly luster and two directions of good cleavage at nearly 90 degrees.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in felsic igneous rocks like granite and pegmatites through the slow cooling of magma deep within the Earth's crust.
Uses & applications
Widely used in the manufacture of ceramics, porcelain, glass, and as a mild abrasive; occasionally cut as a gemstone such as amazonite or moonstone.
Geological facts
Feldspars are the most abundant mineral group in the Earth's crust, making up about 60% of terrestrial rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive rectangular crystal habit, prismatic cleavage angles, and pinkish-tan coloration. Found globally in granitic terrains.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous