Scolecite clusters from Pune in India (Scolecite belongs to the Zeolites)

The mineral scolecite is a hydrated calcium-aluminum silicate with the chemical formula CaAl2Si3O10·3(H2O). The tectosilicate belongs to the zeolites. The transparent to translucent colorless, white or brown scolecite has a glass to semi-gloss, a white stripe color and the cleavage is perfect according to the crystal plane [110]. The average density is 2.28 and the hardness is 5 to 5.5. The crystal system is monoclinic and the mineral is not radioactive. The name of the mineral scolecite is derived from the Greek word scolec, meaning "worm". This is due to the reaction of the mineral when it is held near a flame. Scolecite is a mineral that is formed during the low-temperature weathering of basalts and related rocks. The type location is located in Kaiserstuhl, Baden, Germany. It is also found in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India.