Sanidine
Sanidine is a silicate mineral recognized among collectors for its crystal form and distribution, with notable Chinese occurrences.
About Sanidine
Sanidine is a silicate mineral in the feldspar group / alkali feldspar and has the chemical formula KAlSi3O8. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and holds a steady position among silicate species.
Identification & care
Specimens usually show tabular crystals, often glassy; Carlsbad twins common. Its color range is broad, including colorless, white, pale gray, and pale yellow. The luster is vitreous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is perfect {001}, good {010}. The fracture is conchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Sanidine is a recognized reference. Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Dabaoshan Mine, among others.