mineral
K-Feldspar
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase/Microcline), KAlSi3O8
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically salmon pink to reddish-orange, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic or triclinic crystal system, and exhibits two directions of good cleavage at nearly right angles.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, typically salmon pink to reddish-orange, vitreous to pearly luster, monoclinic or triclinic crystal system, and exhibits two directions of good cleavage at nearly right angles.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily through the slow cooling of felsic magmas such as granite and pegmatite, and through metamorphic processes.
Uses & applications
Widely used in the manufacture of ceramics, glass, as a mild abrasive, and occasionally as a minor gemstone or mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Feldspars are the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust, making up about 60% of terrestrial rocks.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its distinct pink color, blocky cleavage fragments, and hardness greater than a knife blade.
