Chabazite-K is a rare potassium-dominant member of the zeolite group, frequently identified by its characteristic pseudocubic rhombohedral crystals. It is typically found lining cavities in basaltic rocks where it forms alongside other zeolite species. Collectors look for its sharp, well-formed crystals that often display complex twinning patterns.
Is this chabazite-k?
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 chabazite-k with a known reference. Chabazite-K 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. Chabazite-K leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Chabazite-K typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, yellow, pink, brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals often appearing pseudocubic, sometimes as penetration twins.
Often confused with
Chabazite-K vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside chabazite-k
Minerals reported to co-occur with chabazite-k. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Ca(Al₄Si₈O₂₄)·10H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 4-5
- Density
- 2.05-2.15 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Rhombohedral Crystals Often Appearing Pseudocubic, Sometimes as Penetration Twins
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {10-11}
- Rarity
- Uncommon
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Amygdaloidal Basalt Cavities and Volcanic Tuffs
- Typical price
- $10-60 for thumbnail or small cabinet specimens
Where rockhounds find chabazite-k
Classic worldwide localities
- Germany
- Italy
- USA
- Iceland
- Faroe Islands
Field-hunting tip
Look in amygdaloidal basalt cavities and volcanic tuffs country — that is the host setting where chabazite-k typically forms. If you start seeing natrolite, heulandite, stilbite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a rhombohedral crystals often appearing pseudocubic, sometimes as penetration twins habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify chabazite-k?+
Where is chabazite-k found?+
How much is chabazite-k worth?+
What rocks look like chabazite-k?+
What minerals are found with chabazite-k?+
What kind of rock does chabazite-k form in?+
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Find chabazite-k on the map
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