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albite twin
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Figure 2: Twinning in feldspars.
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albite twin

crystallography
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Quick Summary

Figure 2: Twinning in feldspars.
Figure 2: Twinning in feldspars.

Albite twinning is a type of crystal twinning found in triclinic feldspars, specifically plagioclase feldspars. This twinning is characterized by multiple, parallel lines that are visible on certain cleavage surfaces. It is a key feature used to distinguish plagioclase feldspars from alkali feldspars, as alkali feldspars do not typically exhibit this polysynthetic twinning. While other twinning types exist, albite twinning is particularly common and helps in identifying specific feldspar minerals.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. feldspar - Crystal structure
  2. feldspar - Identification of specific feldspars

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