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leucite

Leucite is a potassium aluminum silicate mineral belonging to the feldspathoid group. Its ideal chemical formula is KAlSi2O6, and its structure comprises a framework of SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedra with potassium ions occupying large cavities. Leucite forms in silica-undersaturated, potassium-rich igneous rocks and is part of the broader feldspathoid family, which contrasts with feldspars by requiring less silica in their structure.

Crystals are typically colorless to white, sometimes yellow or brown, with a vitreous luster. They commonly

Leucite occurs in igneous rocks such as leucitites and phonolites, commonly forming late-stage minerals in alkaline

In addition to its role as a mineral specimen, leucite has attracted interest for potential industrial applications

The name leucite derives from the Greek leukos, meaning “white,” in reference to its typical coloration.

occur
as
well-formed
euhedral
crystals
or
as
coarse
aggregates.
The
mineral
has
a
Mohs
hardness
around
5.5
and
a
specific
gravity
of
about
2.45.
Crystals
are
often
described
as
trapezohedral
or
pseudo-cubic
in
appearance.
magmatic
sequences.
It
is
frequently
associated
with
nepheline
and
other
feldspathoids,
as
well
as
alkali
feldspars
and
magnetite.
The
presence
of
leucite
serves
as
an
indicator
of
silica
undersaturation
and
alkaline
magmatism.
due
to
its
potassium
content,
and
leucite-bearing
rocks
have
contributed
to
studies
of
magmatic
differentiation
and
mantle
source
characteristics.