This natrolite specimen comes from the former Mahlscheid basalt quarry near Herdorf in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Fine natrolite crystals sit on a dark volcanic matrix.
The crystals form dense, locally radial aggregates. Individual fine crystals project from the more compact groups. Their color ranges from white to cream-colored.
Measuring 4.7 × 3.7 × 1.0 cm, the piece belongs to the miniature specimen size category. It weighs 20.7 g.
Natrolite from a Protected Locality near Herdorf
The Mahlscheid basalt quarry is a documented German locality for natrolite and other zeolite minerals. The former quarry is located near Herdorf in the Altenkirchen district and is now protected. Natrolite has been documented from this locality.
The zeolite minerals formed in fractures and cavities within the volcanic rock. Mineral-bearing fluids circulated through these open spaces and deposited natrolite on the cavity walls.
The fine crystal aggregates, dark matrix, and provenance from the former Mahlscheid basalt quarry make this piece a characteristic natrolite specimen from Rhineland-Palatinate.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Natrolite |
| Chemical Composition | Hydrated sodium aluminum silicate, Na₂Al₂Si₃O₁₀ · 2H₂O |
| Locality | Mahlscheid basalt quarry, Herdorf, Altenkirchen district, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany |
| Dimensions | 4.7 × 3.7 × 1.0 cm |
| Weight | 20.7 g |
| Specimen Size | Miniature specimen |
| Color | White to cream-colored |
| Luster | Silky |
| Transparency | opaque; translucent to transparent in the crystal tips |
| Crystal Habit | Fine, elongated natrolite crystals |
| Crystal arrangement | Dense, locally radial aggregates |
| Matrix | dark, volcanic matrix |
| Formation | Zeolite formation in fractures and cavities within volcanic rock |
| Special Feature | Natrolite from the former Mahlscheid basalt quarry |














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