About Montmorillonite
A soft phyllosilicate clay mineral of the smectite group, the main constituent of bentonite. It's known for its swelling and absorbent properties, associated with detoxification, purification, and emotional balance.
Primary Hues
White, Grey, Pink, Yellow, Green, Blue, often soft and earthy
Metaphysical Properties
A detoxifying and purifying stone. Believed to absorb negative energies and promote emotional balance. Used in healing clays.
Associated Tarot Cards
The Moon
Type: Major Arcana
Rationale: Represents emotional absorption- intuition- and gentle cleansing- aligning with this clay mineral.
Queen of Cups
Type: Minor Arcana
Suit: Cups
Rationale: Symbolizes emotional balance- care- and nurturing- resonating with Montmorillonite.
Associated Deities
Kuan Yin
Pantheon: Buddhist
Domain: Compassion- Mercy- Purity
Rationale: Her gentle- purifying energy aligns with this clay's properties.
Gaia
Pantheon: Greek
Domain: Earth Mother- Nurturing
Rationale: As a primary component of Bentonite clay- it has a strong nurturing Earth connection.
Metaphysical Uses
Emotional Absorption Rituals
Gentle Nurturing Meditation
Inner Cleansing Focus
Please read our Metaphysical Disclaimer
Geological & Scientific Details
Montmorillonite is classified as a phyllosilicates smectite group mineral which typically crystallizes in the monoclinic system. Its chemical formula is (Na,Ca)0.33(Al,Mg)2(Si4O10)(OH)2·nH2O. Common crystal habits include compact masses of lamellar or globular microcrystalline aggregates.
Key Geological Properties:
- Mineral Category: Phyllosilicates Smectite group
- Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)0.33(Al,Mg)2(Si4O10)(OH)2·nH2O
- IMA Symbol: Mnt[1]
- Crystal System: Monoclinic
- Predominant Geological Color: White, pale pink, blue, yellow, red, green
- Crystal Habit: Compact masses of lamellar or globular microcrystalline aggregates
- Cleavage: {001} Perfect
- Luster: Dull, earthy
- Diaphaneity: Translucent
Associated Minerals
- Smectite Group (Beidellite, Nontronite, Saponite, Hectorite)
- Kaolinite
- Illite
- Quartz
- Feldspar (common in altered volcanic ash beds and soils)