RocksdayMesolite vs Natrolite
To tell Mesolite from Natrolite: Natrolite needles are stouter and square in cross-section.
A zeolite that forms delicate white needles, compositionally between natrolite and scolecite.
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky, CC BY-SA 3.0
A zeolite forming glassy, needle-like crystals in sprays.
Photo: Didier Descouens, CC BY-SA 4.0
Key differences
- Natrolite needles are stouter and square in cross-section.
Side by side
| Property | Mesolite | Natrolite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mineral | Mineral |
| Mohs hardness | 5 | 5–5.5 |
| Luster | Vitreous to silky | Vitreous to silky |
| Streak | White | White |
| Colors | White, Clear | White, Clear |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Orthorhombic |
| Specific gravity | 2.2–2.4 | 2.2–2.26 |
| Formula | Na₂Ca₂Al₆Si₉O₃₀·8H₂O | Na₂Al₂Si₃O₁₀·2H₂O |
| Found in | Pune, India; Oregon | New Jersey; Kola Peninsula, Russia |
Properties that are the same for both are grayed out.
How to identify mesolite
- Hair-like white needles or compact fibrous tufts in basalt cavities.
- Very light.
- A knife scratches it.
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Full Mesolite guide →How to identify natrolite
- Clear to white needles in radiating sprays.
- Square cross-section on larger crystals.
- Light and brittle.
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Full Natrolite guide →More comparisons
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mesolite and natrolite?
Mesolite is a mineral (Na₂Ca₂Al₆Si₉O₃₀·8H₂O) with a Mohs hardness of 5 and a vitreous to silky luster, usually white or colorless. Natrolite is a mineral (Na₂Al₂Si₃O₁₀·2H₂O) with a Mohs hardness of 5–5.5 and a vitreous to silky luster, usually white or colorless.
How can you tell mesolite from natrolite?
Natrolite needles are stouter and square in cross-section.
Could you tell them apart from a blurry close-up?
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