Clinoptilolite-K , Lovozerite (FOV 2.3 x 2.8 mm) Locality: Poudrette quarry (Demix quarry; Uni-Mix quarry; Desourdy quarry; Carrière Mont Saint-Hilaire), Mont Saint-Hilaire, Rouville RCM, Montérégie, Québec, Canada Original description: Thanks to Ralph Thomas and Dick Tillett (the finder – ca 1996). MOB coll. This is from the only verified find of clinoptilolite-K at MSH. The clinoptilolite is the small colorless tabular xls (mostly bottom left). The (yellow) lovozerite on this specimen has also been verified (EDS). — Photo: Modris Baum · Public domain
Lovozerite
Lovozerite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the silicate class, with the chemical formula Na₃CaZrSi₆O₁₅(OH)₃.
It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system (space group R3). It is a member of the Lovozerite-Zirsinalite–Lovozerite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 5; specific gravity 2.38–2.71; Brown streak; Vitreous, resinous to dull luster; optically uniaxial.
IMA symbol Lvz, grandfathered status — known before the IMA’s founding, named in 1939.
Found in nepheline syenites and associated pegmatites.
It is found associated with Potassic feldspar, nepheline, aegirine, lamprophyllite, eudialyte, murmanite (Kola Peninsula, Russia).
The name refers to the occurrence in the Lovozero massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia.