Rock Identifier
Pink feldspar (likely orthoclase) (Orthoclase, KAlSi₃O₈) — mineral
mineral

Pink feldspar (likely orthoclase)

Orthoclase, KAlSi₃O₈

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Salmon-pink to peach, vitreous to pearly luster, Mohs hardness 6, monoclinic crystals with two good cleavage directions near 90°. The small, rough fragment is not sufficient for definitive identification.

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Physical properties

Salmon-pink to peach, vitreous to pearly luster, Mohs hardness 6, monoclinic crystals with two good cleavage directions near 90°. The small, rough fragment is not sufficient for definitive identification.

Formation & geological history

Forms during slow cooling of potassium-rich magma, commonly in granites and pegmatites; feldspar is abundant in rocks spanning much of Earth’s geological history.

Uses & applications

Feldspar is used in glass and ceramic manufacture; attractive crystals are collected, and some feldspar varieties are cut as gemstones.

Geological facts

Pink color commonly results from trace impurities in potassium feldspar; feldspar is the most abundant mineral group in Earth’s crust.

Field identification & locations

Look for a blocky shape, two near-right-angle cleavage planes, and hardness around 6; common in granites and pegmatites worldwide. Color alone cannot confirm the identification.