Willhendersonite is a rare potassium-calcium zeolite typically found in the vesicles of basaltic rocks. It is visually very similar to chabazite and often requires X-ray diffraction or chemical analysis for positive identification.
Is this willhendersonite?
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 willhendersonite with a known reference. Willhendersonite sits at Mohs 3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Willhendersonite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Willhendersonite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, pale yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: pseudo-rhombohedral crystals, often as complex intergrowths.
Often confused with
Willhendersonite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside willhendersonite
Minerals reported to co-occur with willhendersonite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- K₂Ca₂Al₆Si₆O₂₄·10H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 3
- Density
- 2.16 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Triclinic
- Crystal habit
- Pseudo-rhombohedral Crystals, Often as Complex Intergrowths
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {001}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Basaltic Volcanic Rocks, Specifically in Amygdaloidal Cavities
- Typical price
- $20-150 for micro-mounts or small cabinet specimens
Where rockhounds find willhendersonite
Classic worldwide localities
- Paterson, New Jersey, USA
- Fort Lee, New Jersey, USA
Field-hunting tip
Look in basaltic volcanic rocks, specifically in amygdaloidal cavities country — that is the host setting where willhendersonite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, heulandite, analcime in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a pseudo-rhombohedral crystals, often as complex intergrowths habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find willhendersonite on the map
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