Micromount - Ellingsenite from Aris, Namibia

Ellingsenite is a rare and fascinating mineral, particularly of interest to micromount collectors. Its unique properties and limited availability make it a sought-after piece for any mineral collection.

This mineral was first discovered in the Aris quarries near Windhoek, Namibia, and has since become a highlight for mineralogists and collectors worldwide. Ellingsenite's delicate, white crystals often appear in fascinating aggregates, revealing their full splendor under the microscope. For micromount enthusiasts, ellingsenite offers the opportunity to admire the complexity and beauty of mineral structures on a small scale.

Mineralogical details:

• Chemical formula: Na₅Ca₆Si₁₈O₃₈(OH)₁₃·6H₂O
• Chemical composition: Ellingsenite consists mainly of sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), silicon (Si), oxygen (O) and hydroxide ions (OH).
• Color: Colorless to white
• Line color: white
• Luster: Individual crystals exhibit a vitreous luster, while aggregates exhibit a silky luster.
• Mohs hardness: 4
• Cleavage: Complete
• Fracture: No specific information available
• Instability: No specific information available
• Crystal system: Monoclinic
• Morphology: Ellingsenite crystallizes as spider-shaped white crystals with a width of about 1.2 mm.
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Details on the place of origin and location:

The Aris quarries are located approximately 25 km south of the Namibian capital, Windhoek. Phonolite, a volcanic rock used for road construction in and around Windhoek, is mined in these quarries. The Aris phonolites contain numerous mineral-rich cavities that host a variety of rare minerals, including ellingsenite. Aris is also the only known location for ellingsenite in the world.

Significance of the mineral in different cultures:

Due to its rarity and specific location, there are no recorded cultural significance or mythological stories directly related to ellingsenite. Its discovery in the late 1980s makes it a relatively new mineral, gaining recognition primarily in scientific circles and among collectors.

Healing and water stone relevant aspects of healing effects:

In the world of healing stones, many minerals are attributed certain energetic properties. However, because ellingsenite is a rare and little-known mineral, there are no documented uses or effects in the field of healing stones or as a water stone. For information on healing stones and their uses, you can visit our page "Crystal Power - Healing Stones by Type."

Reference to zodiac signs:

There are no known specific associations of ellingsenite with any particular zodiac sign. Due to its rarity and limited popularity, it is not mentioned in astrological contexts.

Disclaimer on healing stones:

Please note that the effects of gemstones and minerals have not been scientifically proven and should therefore not be considered a substitute for medical treatments or therapies. These are traditions and beliefs that everyone can interpret and apply for themselves.

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