mineral
Red-orange feldspar crystal (likely orthoclase)
Potassium feldspar, KAlSi₃O₈ (likely orthoclase)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque, salmon-red to orange, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and blocky shape; feldspar has Mohs hardness 6 and two near-90° cleavage directions. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm the species.
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Physical properties
Opaque, salmon-red to orange, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and blocky shape; feldspar has Mohs hardness 6 and two near-90° cleavage directions. The photo does not show enough detail to confirm the species.
Formation & geological history
Likely crystallized as part of an igneous rock, such as granite or pegmatite, as magma cooled; potassium feldspar is common in rocks spanning much of Earth’s geological history.
Uses & applications
Feldspar is used in glass and ceramic production; attractive crystals may be kept as inexpensive mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Red coloration commonly comes from tiny inclusions or staining rather than the feldspar itself.
Field identification & locations
Its blocky form and approximately right-angle cleavage are useful clues; distinguish it from quartz, which lacks cleavage. The image alone cannot establish locality or definitively identify the mineral.
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Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
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Epidote
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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