Rock Identifier
Peach/orange feldspar crystal (Orthoclase or microcline, KAlSi₃O₈ (tentative)) — mineral
mineral

Peach/orange feldspar crystal

Orthoclase or microcline, KAlSi₃O₈ (tentative)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small translucent salmon-orange fragment with vitreous-to-pearly luster and uneven fracture; feldspar hardness is about 6–6.5 Mohs, with two cleavage directions near 90°. The color may result from iron-bearing inclusions or surface staining; crystal structure is monoclinic (orthoclase) or triclinic (microcline).

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Physical properties

Small translucent salmon-orange fragment with vitreous-to-pearly luster and uneven fracture; feldspar hardness is about 6–6.5 Mohs, with two cleavage directions near 90°. The color may result from iron-bearing inclusions or surface staining; crystal structure is monoclinic (orthoclase) or triclinic (microcline).

Formation & geological history

Feldspar crystallizes from cooling silica-rich igneous magma, especially granite and pegmatite, and can also occur in metamorphic rocks. The specimen’s exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Feldspar is widely used in glass, ceramics, abrasives, and construction materials; attractive crystals are collected, while gem-quality varieties such as sunstone and moonstone are cut for jewelry.

Geological facts

The image alone cannot reliably distinguish feldspar from orange calcite, quartz, or a dyed mineral. A hardness test, cleavage examination, and specific-gravity or refractive-index testing would improve identification.

Field identification & locations

Look for blocky crystals, two good cleavages, and hardness greater than glass; feldspar commonly occurs in granites and pegmatites worldwide, notably in Brazil, Madagascar, India, and the United States.