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Nepheline
Nepheline is tectosilicate (feldspathoid), (Na,K)AlSiO₄. In the hand, it rates 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it runs gray and greasy white. The 'greasy quartz that isn't', oily-lustered gray mineral filling quartz's role in silica-starved rocks, but softer and clouding in strong acid.
The geology.
Nepheline carries the formula (Na,K)AlSiO₄. It belongs to the hexagonal system. On paper it is tectosilicate (feldspathoid).
It sits at 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. The surface reads greasy to vitreous. Light behaviour is translucent to opaque. Specific gravity runs 2.55 to 2.66. The streak is white. It breaks with poor cleavage; subconchoidal fracture.
The 'greasy quartz that isn't', oily-lustered gray mineral filling quartz's role in silica-starved rocks, but softer and clouding in strong acid.
Expect to see it as massive greasy patches in syenite, stubby hexagonal prisms or rock-forming grains.
The origins.
Alkaline rocks: Ontario (Canada, nepheline syenite belts), Kola (Russia), Norway, Maine (USA).
On value, the database notes: inexpensive rock-former; gemmy crystals are rarities.
Traditional associations.
In energy work traditions, nepheline has little established lore; yooperlite fans meet it as the host rock's filler.
Recorded here because it is part of how this material is sold, not because it is a property of the material.
Spotting the real thing.
The 'greasy quartz that isn't', oily-lustered gray mineral filling quartz's role in silica-starved rocks, but softer and clouding in strong acid.
| Looks like | How to tell them apart |
|---|---|
| Quartz | Quartz is harder, glassier, and never greasy; the two almost never share a rock (chemically incompatible) |
| Feldspar | Feldspars flash flat cleavage faces; nepheline's break is dull and greasy |
| Scapolite | Scapolite is fibrous-looking with better cleavage; lab work separates massive pieces |
At-home tests.
None of these need a lab. A 10x loupe, good daylight and a steady hand cover most of what a buyer needs to know about nepheline.
| Test | What you should see |
|---|---|
| By eye | Greasy luster (the classic field clue) |
| Scratch check | Knife scratches it with effort |
| Acid check | Gelatinizes in strong acid (lab test) |
Stop short of anything that leaves a mark. A gemologist can answer the rest without damaging the stone.
Care & handling.
At 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale it handles careful wear but scratches against quartz and dust. Store it separately and take rings off before rough work.
It breaks with poor cleavage; subconchoidal fracture, which is worth knowing before you set it or drop it.
Skip the ultrasonic. Lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth handle routine cleaning without risk.
A deeper look.
Extended detail on composition, sourcing, authentication and market value.
The physical record
The formula on record is (Na,K)AlSiO₄. Crystal system: Hexagonal. Specific gravity: 2.55 to 2.66. Streak: White. Cleavage and fracture: Poor cleavage; subconchoidal fracture.
How it reaches the market
Alkaline rocks: Ontario (Canada, nepheline syenite belts), Kola (Russia), Norway, Maine (USA).
What it gets confused with
Quartz: Quartz is harder, glassier, and never greasy; the two almost never share a rock (chemically incompatible). Feldspar: Feldspars flash flat cleavage faces; nepheline's break is dull and greasy. Scapolite: Scapolite is fibrous-looking with better cleavage; lab work separates massive pieces.
What it is worth
Inexpensive rock-former; gemmy crystals are rarities.
One more thing
Nepheline means 'cloud stone', drop a grain in acid and it silently clouds over, the old chemists' party trick.
An education-first guide.
We do not carry nepheline. This page exists because the question comes up and the honest answer is worth writing down, whether or not there is anything here to sell you.
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