mineral

Pink Feldspar

Orthoclase Feldspar (KAlSi3O8)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, or flesh-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at right angles; Specific gravity: 2.55-2.63

Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale
Color: Pink, salmon, or flesh-red
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, salmon, or flesh-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at right angles; Specific gravity: 2.55-2.63

Formation & geological history

Formed in cooling igneous rocks (especially granite and pegmatite) or metamorphic rocks like gneiss. Feldspar crystallizes from magma and can be billions of years old depending on the host rock formation.

Uses & applications

Used widely in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics (porcelain), as a filler in paint/plastics, and sometimes as a minor gemstone (Moonstone or Sunstone varieties).

Geological facts

Feldspar is the most abundant group of minerals in the Earth's crust, making up about 60% of its composition. The pink color in orthoclase is usually caused by trace elemental inclusions or chemical variations in the crystal structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct pink color, pearly luster, and 'step-like' cleavage surfaces that reflect light. It is commonly found in gravel, riverbeds, and mountainous granite outcrops.