mineral
Likely potassium feldspar (pink feldspar)
Orthoclase or microcline, KAlSi₃O₈
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPink to salmon-brown, opaque, with a dull to vitreous luster and blocky cleavage surfaces. Mohs hardness is about 6; feldspar is monoclinic (orthoclase) or triclinic (microcline).
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Physical properties
Pink to salmon-brown, opaque, with a dull to vitreous luster and blocky cleavage surfaces. Mohs hardness is about 6; feldspar is monoclinic (orthoclase) or triclinic (microcline).
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich magma cools slowly in intrusive igneous rocks, and also occurs in metamorphic rocks and pegmatites. The specimen’s age and exact origin cannot be determined from the image.
Uses & applications
Feldspar is used in glass and ceramics; attractive crystals and polished pieces are collected or occasionally used as ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Potassium feldspar is one of Earth’s most abundant minerals and commonly gives granite its pink color.
Field identification & locations
The salmon color and two near-right-angle cleavage directions are characteristic; distinguish it from quartz, which lacks cleavage. Common in granites and pegmatites worldwide.
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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
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral