RocksdayMesolite vs Scolecite
To tell Mesolite from Scolecite: Scolecite sprays are similar; mesolite is the sodium-calcium intermediate.
A zeolite that forms delicate white needles, compositionally between natrolite and scolecite.
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky, CC BY-SA 3.0
A zeolite forming sprays of slender, glassy white needles.
Photo: Carles Millan, CC BY 3.0
Key differences
- Scolecite sprays are similar; mesolite is the sodium-calcium intermediate.
Side by side
| Property | Mesolite | Scolecite |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Monoclinic |
| Specific gravity | 2.2–2.4 | 2.25–2.29 |
| Formula | Na₂Ca₂Al₆Si₉O₃₀·8H₂O | CaAl₂Si₃O₁₀·3H₂O |
| Found in | Pune, India; Oregon | Pune, India; Iceland |
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 scolecite
- Radiating sprays of thin, straight white needles.
- Often with apophyllite or stilbite.
- Brittle needles snap easily.
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Full Scolecite guide →More comparisons
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mesolite and scolecite?
Mesolite is a mineral (Na₂Ca₂Al₆Si₉O₃₀·8H₂O) with a Mohs hardness of 5 and a vitreous to silky luster, usually white or colorless. Scolecite is a mineral (CaAl₂Si₃O₁₀·3H₂O) with a Mohs hardness of 5–5.5 and a vitreous to silky luster, usually white or colorless.
How can you tell mesolite from scolecite?
Scolecite sprays are similar; mesolite is the sodium-calcium intermediate.
Could you tell them apart from a blurry close-up?
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