Clinoptilolite-K
Na₂₆REE₆(SiO₃)₆(PO₄)₆(CO₃)₆(S⁴⁺O₂)O

     Clinoptilolite-K, a member of the zeolite group, is a recent addition to the mineralogical suite of Mont Saint-Hilaire. It was analysed and confirmed by Dr Andy McDonald of Laurentian University.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Color is colorless.
Luster is vitreous to slightly pearly on (010).
Diaphaneity is transparent.
Crystal System is monoclinic, C2/m.
Crystal Habits include platy crystals with possible twinning
   or stacking on (010).
Cleavage {010} is perfect.
Fracture is uneven.
Hardness is 3.5 - 4
Specific Gravity is approximately 2.13 g/cm³.
Streak is white.
Associated Minerals include aegirine, eudialyte group and sodalite.
Distinguishing Features: Strong light green fluorescence, short wave.
Origin: Named in 1932 from the Greek, klino, oblique, ptylon, feather
   and lithos, stone. Named as the monoclinic dimorph of ptilolite
   (mordenite).

CLASSIFICATION:

REFERENCES:
CanMin 32:843-854 (1994), Dana 8:1671-1674 (1997)

DISTRIBUTION AND RARITY AT MONT SAINT-HILAIRE:

Legend