Nepheline
Fun Fact: Nepheline has a cloud like appearance when immersed in acid.
Introduction: Nepheline is named after the Greek nephele which means 'cloud', a reference to its appearance when immersed in concentrated acid. It is known to form in rocks that are under-saturated with silica therefore never found with quartz.
Distribution: North of Okahandja, Swartbooisdrif, north-west Kaokoland, the Aris phonolites and in many clusters of carbonatites and alkaline ring complexes outcrop in southern and central Namibia.
Composition: Silicate
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Lustre: Waxy, greasy
Streak: White
Hardness: 5.5-6
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