Billingsleyite is a rare mineral belonging to the carbonate class. It is characterized by its composition, crystal structure, and physical properties. The name "billingsleyite" is derived from the locality where it was first discovered, Billingsley Mine in Montgomery County, Arkansas, USA.
Chemically, billingsleyite is composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen, with the formula Al3((Si,Al)4O10)(OH)2·(H2O). It is classified as a phyllosilicate or sheet silicate mineral, due to its layered crystal structure. It forms thin, platy crystals or aggregates, typically translucent or opaque, with colors ranging from white to light gray or greenish-gray.
Billingsleyite is primarily found in hydrothermal veins and fissures associated with sedimentary rocks, formed through the alteration of aluminum-rich minerals like feldspar. It often occurs in association with other minerals such as quartz, kaolinite, and pyrite.
As a mineral, billingsleyite possesses certain physical properties that aid in its identification. It has a hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft. Its luster is typically described as dull or earthy, and it has a specific gravity ranging from 2.0 to 2.3. It is non-radioactive and does not exhibit any fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
While billingsleyite is not a widely known mineral due to its rarity, it is of scientific interest for geological research. Its crystal structure and formation provide valuable insights into the conditions under which certain minerals can be produced, contributing to our understanding of the Earth's geological processes.
