Kaolinite

 

Kaolinite is a common mineral, formed by weathering or hydrothermal alteration of feldspar. Many and varied products are made from this mineral which includes common brick, drain tile, and in high-grade form, china and pottery. Its largest use is as filler in paper. The name is derived from the ancient Chinese locality “Kaoling (Gaoling),” meaning “high ridge.”

Mineral Photos courtesy of R.Weller/Cochise College