Xonotlite

Xonotlite
Xonotlite from Newfoundland
General
Category	Inosilicates
Formula (repeating unit)	Ca6Si6O17(OH)2
Strunz classification	9.DG.35
Dana classification	66.3.1.1
Crystal system	Monoclinic
Crystal class	Prismatic (2/m) (same H-M symbol)
Space group	P2/a

Xonotlite is a mineral with the chemical formula Ca₆Si₆O₁₇(OH)₂. It crystallizes in the monoclinic - prismatic crystal system with typically an acicular crystal form or habit. It can be colorless, gray, light gray, lemon white, or pink. It is transparent with a vitreous to silky luster. It leaves a white streak. Xonotlite is rated 6.5 on the Mohs Scale of hardness. It was first described in 1866 and named for its occurrence in Tetela de Xonotla, Puebla, Mexico. It occurs as veins in serpentinite and contact metamorphism aureoles.