Chabazite is a tectosilicate mineral belonging to the zeolite group, closely associated with gmelinite, and has the chemical formula (Ca,K2,Na2,Mg)Al2Si4O12•6H2O. Varieties are classified as Chabazite-Ca, Chabazite-K, Chabazite-Na, and Chabazite-Sr, based on the dominant cation present.
This mineral crystallizes in the triclinic system, typically forming pseudo-cubic, rhombohedral-shaped crystals that often exhibit twinning, including both contact and penetration types. Chabazite can appear in various colors, including colorless, white, orange, brown, pink, green, or yellow, with a hardness of 3 to 5 and a specific gravity ranging from 2.0 to 2.2, displaying a vitreous luster. It was first named chabasie in 1792 by Bosc d'Antic before adopting its current name. Chabazite is primarily found in voids and amygdules within basaltic rock formations.
Calcite is a carbonate mineral and the most stable form of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). It is widely found, especially as a key element in limestone. With a hardness rating of 3 on the Mohs scale, calcite is assessed based on its ability to be scratched. Large crystals of calcite are utilized in optical devices, while limestone, primarily made up of calcite, serves a variety of purposes.
