Like a number of other minerals, Natron is a brittle mineral which follows the monoclinic crystal system. There are, however, a number of different factors that come into play which are responsible for making Natron appear as transparent or translucent. While the mineral generally has a vitreous or powdery appearance, it’s interesting for many that it often appears to be completely colorless when seen against transmitted light. In ancient Egypt, the Natron mineral was also used to produce a unique color known as Egyptian blue. What’s important to note, however, is that Natron is white in its purest form, whereas the grey and yellow colors come from impurities. AppearanceĪs mentioned above, Natron is naturally found in a number of colors from white to grey and even yellow. Interested in learning more about this incredible mineral? Read on to find out everything you need to know about Natron, its chemical composition, and the various reasons why it has been such a popular mineral throughout history. One of the major reasons why Natron is so popular is because of its commercial use in the production of soda ash, a water-soluble sodium salt with a variety of benefits and usages. Used extensively by the Egyptians for the mummification process, Natron is commonly found in a number of African countries including Egypt, Chad, and Tanzania which is home to a soda lake, Lake Natron, which gets its name from the mineral.Ī mixture of sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate decahydrate, Natron is generally powdery or vitreous, and extremely brittle. Naturally occurring in a number of different colors from pure white, yellow, or even grey, Natron is a mineral that is popular for a variety of reasons.
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