Danalite is a mineral that has the chemical formula Li2AlSi3O8(OH). The spelling of Danalite is pronounced /ˈdænəlaɪt/. In IPA phonetic transcription, the first syllable can be pronounced as /ˈdæn/ with a short 'a' sound, followed by a schwa sound /ə/. The second syllable is pronounced as /əlaɪt/ with the stress on the second syllable and an 'aɪ' sound followed by a 't' sound. The correct spelling of Danalite is important to identify and classify the mineral correctly in scientific research.
Danalite is a mineral that belongs to the cyclosilicate group. It is characterized by its unique crystal structure and composition, primarily consisting of iron, manganese, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. The mineral is typically found in metamorphic rocks and pegmatites, often associated with other minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica.
Danalite can vary in color, ranging from pale brown to rose-red, as well as being transparent or translucent. It possesses a hexagonal crystal system and forms prismatic or tabular crystals, occasionally exhibiting twinning. Its luster is vitreous to resinous, and its hardness is relatively low, ranging between 4 and 5 on the Mohs scale.
The mineral is named after James Dwight Dana, an American mineralogist and geologist. Danalite holds significance in the field of geology due to its ability to be used as an indicator mineral for the formation conditions of certain rocks. It is also recognized for its pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from various angles under polarized light.
Danalite has limited industrial applications, primarily being valued for its use as a collector's mineral and for its aesthetic qualities. The gem-quality varieties of Danalite may be faceted to enhance their appearance and used in jewelry or as ornamental stones. Due to its relative scarcity and specific occurrence, Danalite is not widely known or utilized outside of geological and mineralogical circles.
The word "Danalite" is derived from the name of the Danish mineralogist Johann V. Danell (1774–1853). Danalite is a mineral that was first discovered and described by him in 1826, and it was named in his honor.