Class : Silicates
    Subclass : Tectosilicates
    Crystal system : Monoclinic
    Chemistry : CaAl₂Si₃O₁₀ 3H₂O
    Rarity : Fairly common

Scolecite belongs to the group of zeolites, hydrated aluminosilicates made up of a framework crisscrossed with channels in which water and large cations are inserted. Scolecite is one of the most abundant zeolites with natrolite and mesolite from which it is difficult to distinguish. The crystals have the same appearance as those of natrolite and mesolite : very elongated prisms, forming divergent aggregates or clumps of extremely fine crystals. Transparent to translucent, with a vitreous to silky sheen for finely fibrous masses, it is colorless to white, rarely yellowish or orange. It is mainly found in basalt cavities, associated with apophyllite, calcite, natrolite and many other zeolites. It is rarer in alpine slits in crystalline schists or alkaline plutonic rocks. It is a mineral occasionally cut into cabochon.

In France, scolecite is known in the basalts of Gergovie (Puy-de-Dôme), at the Pic du Midi (Pyrenees), and in the alpine slits around Chamonix (Haute-Savoie).

Twinning is common on {100} by contact or penetration. The crystals then appear as a spearhead.

No false recorded for this mineral species, but can be easily confused with other zeolites with which it shares the deposits.