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Orthoclase Through the Microscope

Orthoclase

This is from a Cargille Mineral Standard set: Orthoclase. The grain at right center shows the characteristic "Tartan" twinning pattern.

Transmitted Off Crossed Linear Polarized Light

Definition/Function:

Orthoclase is a potassium feldspar. It is psuedo-monoclinic and has a finer "Tartan" twinning pattern generally than microcline.

Significance in the Environment:

Characteristic Features:

Associated Particles:

References: