Amicite is a rare zeolite mineral that typically forms as small, pseudo-tetragonal dipyramidal crystals. It is most frequently found in alkaline igneous environments, particularly in the cavities of nepheline syenite. Because of its scarcity and small crystal size, it is primarily a target for advanced zeolite collectors.
Is this amicite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch amicite with a known reference. Amicite sits at Mohs 4.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Amicite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Amicite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, gray.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: pseudo-tetragonal dipyramidal crystals.
Often confused with
Amicite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside amicite
Minerals reported to co-occur with amicite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Na₂Al₄Si₄O₁₆·5H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 4.5
- Density
- 2.13 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Pseudo-tetragonal Dipyramidal Crystals
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {110}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Alkaline Igneous Rocks, Specifically in Nepheline Syenite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find amicite
Classic worldwide localities
- Hegau, Germany
- Khibiny Massif, Russia
- Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in alkaline igneous rocks, specifically in nepheline syenite pegmatites country, the host setting where amicite typically forms. If you start seeing natrolite, analcime, tetranatrolite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a pseudo-tetragonal dipyramidal crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify amicite?+
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How much is amicite worth?+
What rocks look like amicite?+
What minerals are found with amicite?+
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Find amicite on the map
RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.
