Wollastonite

Introduction: Wollastonite is used as a filler in rubber, paint and plastics, as well as in the manufacture of glass and flux. White to cream fibrous or acicular crystals are white to cream in colour. This mineral was discovered by William Hyde Wollaston (1766-1828). He also discovered rhodium and palladium.

Distribution: The broad zone of wollastonite-rich concentrations are from Swakopmund inland to Usakos-Karibib and northwards to Omaruru.

Composition: Silicate

Crystal system: Triclinic

Lustre: Vitreous, pearly

Streak: White

Hardness: 4.5-5