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Natrolite
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Natrolite was first discovered
in 1803. |
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Natrolite is derived from
the greek words “Natron” meaning “Soda”, in reference to its sodium content,
and “Lithos” for “Stone.” |
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Zeolite crystals, including
Natrolite, have been grown on board the “Space Shuttle” and are undergoing
extensive research into their formation and unique properties. |
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Zeolites are characterized
by their ability to lose and absorb water without damage to their crystal
structures. |
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Zeolites have many useful
purposes. They can perform ion exchange, filtering, odor removal, chemical
sieve and gas absorption tasks. |
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The most well known use for
Zeolites is in water softeners. Calcium in water can cause it to be "hard"
and capable of forming scum and other problems. Zeolites charged with the
much less damaging sodium ions can allow the hard water to pass through
its structure and exchange the calcium for the sodium ions. |
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Aquarium hobbyists are seeing
more Zeolite products in pet stores as Zeolites make excellent removers
of ammonia and other toxins. |
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Natrolite’s radiating sprays
of ice clear acicular crystals are a hallmark of this mineral. |
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Natrolite's structure contains
chains of silicate tetrahedrons aligned in one direction; this produces
the needle-like crystals. |
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Natrolite’s luster is vitreous. |
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Natrolite occurs in India,
U.S.A. and Canada. |
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Typically forming in the
cavities, or vesicles, of volcanic rocks, Zeolites are the result of metamorphism.
Metamorphism is the process of change a rock undergoes when heat, pressure
and stress or chemically active fluids are applied to its surroundings. |
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