Quadridavyne is a rare member of the cancrinite group found primarily within volcanic ejecta of the Somma-Vesuvius region. Collectors typically identify it through its characteristic tetragonal prismatic crystal habit, which distinguishes it from the more common hexagonal davyne.
Is this quadridavyne?
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 quadridavyne with a known reference. Quadridavyne sits at Mohs 6, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Quadridavyne leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Quadridavyne typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: colorless, white.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.
Often confused with
Quadridavyne vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside quadridavyne
Minerals reported to co-occur with quadridavyne. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- (Na,K,Ca)₈(Si₆Al₆O₂₄)Cl₂(CO₃)
- Mohs hardness
- 6
- Density
- 2.44 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Tetragonal
- Crystal habit
- Prismatic Crystals
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {100}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Ejected Volcanic Blocks in Alkaline Igneous Complexes
- Typical price
- $50-300 per micro-specimen
Where rockhounds find quadridavyne
Classic worldwide localities
- Somma-Vesuvius Complex, Italy
Field-hunting tip
Look in ejected volcanic blocks in alkaline igneous complexes country, the host setting where quadridavyne typically forms. If you start seeing nepheline, sanidine, phlogopite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find quadridavyne on the map
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