Orthoclase specimens for sale

32 for sale · $50–$8,500 USD

267 in the gallery

Orthoclase is a potassium feldspar that crystallizes in the monoclinic system. It typically forms clear to pearly, colorless to light pink or yellow crystals with a vitreous to pearly luster and a characteristic triclinic cleavage. Specimens often occur as well-formed prismatic crystals or aggregates in pegmatites and granitic rocks, sometimes displaying a warm pink or creamy hue that is attractive to collectors.

Formula
K(AlSi3O8)
Rarity
Common
Stability
Stable
Collector interest
Moderate Interest
Classification notes
Silicate minerals; tectosilicates; feldspars (K-feldspar)

Key characteristics

Crystal system
monoclinic
Mohs hardness
6–6.5
Specific gravity
2.55–2.63
Luster
vitreous, pearly
Transparency
transparent, translucent, opaque
Color
colorless, white, gray, yellow, pink, red
Streak
white
Cleavage
perfect
Fracture
uneven, conchoidal
Crystal habit
prismatic, tabular, granular, massive
  • Gem mineral
  • Classic / historic

Buy Orthoclase specimens

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Where Orthoclase is found

Top localities

  1. Wheal Coates14 specimens
  2. Pakistan10 specimens
  3. Erongo Mountains9 specimens
  4. Baveno9 specimens
  5. Mount Malosa7 specimens
  6. Wushan Spessartine Mine7 specimens
  7. Pitwak Mine5 specimens
  8. Organ Mountains5 specimens
  9. Capelinha4 specimens
  10. Valenciana Mine4 specimens

About Orthoclase

Notable specimens come from classic localities in Pakistan, Namibia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Italy, where orthoclase occurs alongside other feldspars and minerals in coarsely crystallized rock matrices. Collectors prize sharp terminations, clean faces, and the overall clarity of well-preserved crystals, especially when twinned or associated with quartz or microcline. The mineral’s straightforward identification, broad occurrence, and variety of habits make orthoclase a staple in many lore-filled mineral cabinets and display cases.