What's That Rock?Feldspar
Also called: orthoclase, microcline, plagioclase
The most common group of minerals in the Earth's crust. Pink, cream or white blocks with two flat cleavages at right angles.
How to identify Feldspar
- Two flat cleavage faces at nearly 90 degrees
- Scratches glass
- Blocky pink or white crystals in granite
Often confused with
Is Feldspar valuable?
Inexpensive.
What changes the price
- Common mineral: low value in most forms
- Gem varieties (moonstone, sunstone, labradorite, amazonite) are valued separately
- Well-formed crystals or twins can interest collectors
Uses
- Ceramics, glass, countertops
Care
Safe to wash.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026