sedimentary
Kaolinite (China Clay)
Kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2-2.5 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect (basal); Specific Gravity: 2.6.
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Color
- White to off-white
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Kaolinite (China Clay) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 (Mohs scale); Color: White to off-white; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect (basal); Specific Gravity: 2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the chemical weathering of aluminum silicate minerals like feldspar. It is a secondary mineral found in sedimentary environments and hydrothermal alteration zones.
Uses & applications
Primary component of porcelain and ceramics. Also used as a filler in paper, paint, cosmetics, and rubber, and as an anti-caking agent in food processing.
Geological facts
The name 'kaolinite' is derived from 'Gaoling', a village in Jiangxi Province, China, where it has been mined for centuries to create high-quality pottery.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its soft, chalky texture that sticks to the tongue and produces a distinct earthy smell when wet. Found worldwide in weathered crystalline rocks.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary