Illite

Formula:  (K,H3O)(Al,Mg,Fe)2(Si,Al)4O10[(OH)2,H2O]

Origin of name:  From state of Illinois

 

Crystal system:  Orthorhombic

Crystal class:  2/m

Twinning: 

Unit cell: 

 

Colour:  White and pale colours

Diaphaneity: 

Luster:  Dull

Habit:  Massive, extremely fine-grained

Hardness:  1 to2

Specific gravity:  2.6 to 2.9

Cleavage:  1; {001} perfect

Tenacity: 

Streak: 

 

Synonyms/varieties:

 

Comments:  A group of mica-clay minerals, not a distinct species

 

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