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
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
- Beidellite
- Nontronite
- Saponite
- Hectorite
- Kaolinite
- Illite
- Quartz
- Feldspar