Microcline
ID: 91
Microcline
Chemical Formula
KAlSi3O8
Hardness (Mohs)
6
Crystal System
Triclinic
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Diaphaneity
Transparent to translucent
Color
Typically white, cream, gray, or pink; can also be green (amazonite).
Crystal Habit / Mode of Occurrence
Typically prismatic crystals, often showing Carlsbad twinning. Can also be massive or granular. Common as a major component of many igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Fun Facts
Microcline is a potassium-rich feldspar mineral. The green variety, amazonite, is prized by collectors and is sometimes used in jewelry. The name "microcline" comes from the Greek words "mikros" (small) and "klinein" (to lean), referring to its slightly smaller triclinic angle compared to orthoclase (another potassium feldspar).