Líderite

Líderite is a rare, translucent to transparent, yellowish-brown mineral that belongs to the zeolite group. It was first discovered in 1962 in the Líder mine in the Atacama Desert of Chile, from which it derives its name. Líderite is typically found in volcanic rocks and is associated with other zeolites such as chabazite and natrolite.

The mineral has a chemical formula of Na2Ca2(Si6Al6O24)•6H2O, indicating its composition of sodium, calcium, silicon, aluminum, oxygen, and water. Its crystal structure is monoclinic, and it often forms prismatic crystals or granular masses. Líderite is known for its distinctive yellowish-brown color and its translucent to transparent nature, which allows light to pass through it.

Líderite is not typically used in industry due to its rarity and the presence of more common and commercially valuable zeolites. However, it is of interest to mineral collectors and researchers studying zeolite minerals. Its discovery and characterization have contributed to the understanding of zeolite formation and the geological processes that occur in volcanic environments.