mineral

Pink Feldspar

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8) or Microcline

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Peach, salmon-pink, or flesh-red; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic or Triclinic; Cleavage: Two directions at nearly 90 degrees; Specific Gravity: 2.55-2.63

Hardness: 6
Color: Peach, salmon-pink, or flesh-red
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified January 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in intrusive igneous rocks like granite and syenite, as well as in high-grade metamorphic rocks and pegmatites. These minerals can be billions of years old, dating back to the Precambrian era in many continental shields.

Uses & applications

Used in the manufacture of glass and ceramics (as a flux), as a mild abrasive, and in the production of enamel. Gemstone varieties like moonstone or sunstone are used in jewelry.

Geological facts

Feldspar is the most abundant mineral group in the Earth's crust, making up about 41% of its total weight. The characteristic pink color is usually due to microscopic inclusions of hematite (iron oxide) or variations in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct salmon-pink color, blocky cleavage planes, and hardness (it can scratch glass but is scratched by a steel file). Commonly found in the Appalachian Mountains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Canadian Shield.

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