Information about Alstonite

Alstonite typically forms in colourless to white tabular or prismatic crystals, although it may also occur in massive or granular habits.

It commonly exhibits a vitreous to pearly lustre, with well-defined cleavage. Crystals are often short, thick, and pseudo-hexagonal due to twinning.

Though usually white or pale, slight tints of grey, cream, or pink may be observed due to impurities. It is transparent to translucent and can fluoresce under ultraviolet light.

Uses and History

Alstonite is primarily of scientific and mineralogical interest, with little to no industrial use. It is valued by collectors for its rarity and distinctive crystal forms.

Alstonite is named after the area of its original discovery, near Alston, UK. It was originally discovered in Brownley Hill Mine, Alston Moor, UK.

It was also known historically as bromlite. Both of these names have been used but alstonite is now the more common name.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alstonite
• https://www.mindat.org/min-146.html