Liegite

Liegite is a rare mineral belonging to the zeolite group, characterized by its unique crystal structure and chemical composition. It was first discovered in 1961 in the Liegue River, near the town of Liegue in the Spanish province of Granada. The mineral is named after this location.

Liegite is typically found in volcanic rocks and is often associated with other zeolites such as chabazite and phillipsite. It forms colorless, white, or gray crystals with a vitreous luster. The crystals are usually prismatic or tabular in shape, and can grow to a size of several centimeters.

The chemical formula of liegite is (Na,K,Ca)2-3[Al6Si18O48]·12H2O. This indicates that liegite is a sodium, potassium, and calcium aluminosilicate hydrate. The mineral's structure is composed of a three-dimensional framework of silica and alumina tetrahedra, with sodium, potassium, and calcium ions occupying the interstices.

Liegite is not currently used in any significant industrial applications. However, its unique crystal structure and chemical composition make it of interest to mineralogists and geologists studying the formation and evolution of zeolites. The mineral's rarity and the specific conditions under which it forms make it a valuable subject for scientific research.