Leucite trapezohedrons in volcanic matrix3D ModelNoAI
Locality: Mt. Somma, Italy
No.: 6053
Size: 8 x 6 x 4 cm
Formula: K(AlSi2O6)
Description: Leucite is a member of the feldspathoid group, forming directly from cooling lava in volcanic rock. It forms in low-silica environments where little Quartz is present. When Leucite forms at high temperatures, it crystallizes as isometric crystals in trapezohedral crystal form. May be in single individual crystals, groups of crystals, or in grainy masses. Single crystals may be very well-formed, and may be floater crystals when smoothly popping out of a matrix. As it cools, its crystal structure becomes unstable, and transforms into tetragonal crystal system while retaining the original isometric shape. Though Leucite crystals are usually equant, the crystal faces may be slightly uneven due to the alteration.
Website: http://geology.uaic.ro/muzee/mineralogie/
Concept & 3D-modelling by dr. Andrei Ionut APOPEI
Comments