Carletonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Carletonite?
Carletonite is a rare silicate mineral with formula KNa4Ca4(CO3)4Si8O18(F,OH)·(H2O). It is a phyllosilicate and a member of the apophyllite group. Its tetragonal crystals are a translucent blue, white, colorless or pink with a vitreous to dull lustre. It has a density of 2.45 and a hardness of 4-4.5. It was discovered by G.Y Chao and named for the school he attended, Carleton University of Ottawa. It was first described in 1969 for an occurrence at Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec. The type locality at Mont Saint–Hilaire is the only reported occurrence. It occurs in hornfels and siliceous marble xenoliths within and adjacent to a nepheline syenite intrusion. It occurs in association with quartz, narsarsukite, calcite, fluorite, ancylite, molybdenite, leucosphenite, lorenzenite, galena, albite, pectolite, apophyllite, leifite, microcline and arfvedsonite.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.517-1.521
- Birefringence
- 0.004
- Pleochroism
- Blue stones - pleochroism: blue to pinkish brown
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Carletonite 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.
Carletonite Localities Map
See where Carletonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, light blue, dark blue, pink
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4 - 4.5
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- KNa4Ca4Si8O18(CO3)4(OH,F) · H2O
- Elements
- C, Ca, F, H, K, Na, O, Si
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Carletonite FAQs
How do I identify Carletonite?
Carletonite can be identified by its hardness of 4 - 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Carletonite?
Carletonite typically appears in Colourless, light blue, dark blue, pink. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Carletonite?
Carletonite has a hardness of 4 - 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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