NaCO · 10H
Natron is relatively rare at MSH. Once exposed to air, it alters very rapidly to thermonatrite.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Color is usually colorless.
Luster is dull.
Diaphaneity is transparent.
Crystal System is monoclinic; Cc
Crystal Habits include crystalline masses to 4cm, rarely anhedral
crystals.
Cleavage {001} is distinct and {010} is imperfect.
Fracture is conchoidal.
Hardness is 1.
Specific Gravity is approximately 1.5 g/cm
Streak is white.
Associated Minerals include ussingite, villiaumite and most of the
species found in sodalite xenoliths.
Distinguishing Features: Color and alteration to thermonatrite.
Origin: Named in antiquity from the Hebraic neter, alkaline salts,
referring to its sodium content.
CLASSIFICATION:
Dana System
# 15.1.2.1
Strunz Classification
# V/D.02-20
REFERENCES:
MinRec 21:325 (1990), Dana 8:462-463 (1997)
DISTRIBUTION AND RARITY AT MONT SAINT-HILAIRE:
MSH
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