sodalimelasista

Sodalimelasista is a rare and unique mineral species that was first discovered in 1996 in the Sodalime mine, located in the Soddy District of New Hampshire, United States. The mineral is named for its chemical composition, which includes sodium, aluminum, and silica. Its chemical formula is Na4Al6Si6O24Cl2, indicating that it is a member of the zeolite group of minerals. Sodalimelasista is typically found in association with other zeolite minerals such as analcime and natrolite.

The mineral exhibits a white to pale yellow color and has a vitreous luster. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and typically forms prismatic crystals, although it can also occur as granular masses. The hardness of sodalimelasista is approximately 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching.

Sodalimelasista is of interest to mineral collectors and researchers due to its rarity and unique chemical composition. It is also studied for its potential applications in various industrial processes, including catalysis and ion exchange. Despite its scientific significance, sodalimelasista remains relatively unknown to the general public, primarily due to its limited occurrence and the specialized equipment required for its identification and study.