Aliettite
A variety of Minerals
What is Aliettite?
Aliettite is a complex phyllosilicate mineral of the smectite group with a formula of (Ca0.2Mg6(Si,Al)8O20(OH)4·4H2O) or Mg3Si4O10(OH)20.33(Al,Mg,Fe)2–3(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2·n(H2O). It is a soft, colorless to pale yellow or green earthy mineral which crystallizes in the monoclinic system as minute tabular to platy crystals. It was first described in 1968 for an occurrence in Monte Chiaro, Albareto, Parma Province, Emilia-Romagna, Italy and named for the Italian mineralogist Andrea Alietti (born 1923). It occurs in serpentinized ophiolites and their residual soil. It also occurs in altered dolomite. Associated minerals include talc, chlorite, serpentine and calcite. In addition to the type locality in Italy it has been reported from Kinshasa, Katanga; the Chelyabinsk Oblast of the southern Urals and the Turii alkaline Massif of the Kola Peninsula in Russia; the Zirabulak Mountains of Uzbekistan; and the Goldstrike Mine of Eureka County, Nevada, US.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Aliettite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Aliettite Localities Map
See where Aliettite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless, pale yellow or green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1 - 2
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca0.2Mg6((Si,Al)8O20)(OH)4 · 4H2O
- Elements
- Al, Ca, H, Mg, O, Si
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Aliettite FAQs
How do I identify Aliettite?
Aliettite can be identified by its hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Aliettite?
Aliettite typically appears in Colorless, pale yellow or green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Aliettite?
Aliettite has a hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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