Characteristics of Albite:

Chemical Name: Sodium aluminosilicate

Formula: NaSi3O8

Colors: White, colorless, yellow, green

Structure: Triclinic

Hardness: 6.0-6.5

Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7

Refractive Index: 1.53-1.54

Lustre: Vitreous to pearly

Streak: White

Locations: Canada, Brazil, Norway

What is Albite? 

Albite is mainly significant as a rock-forming mineral, but it also has some use as a gemstone. It is found as well-formed, glassy, and brittle crystals, and these are often of transparent, gem quality. However, as it is relatively soft and brittle, Albite is faceted exclusively for collectors. Indeed, the variety known as peristerite – a mixture of Albite and oligoclase – produces a pleasing bluish, moonstone-like sheen when cut en cabochon. The mineral mostly occurs as colorless material, but it can also be yellowish, pink or green.