Specimen dimensions: 3¾ x 1¼ x 1 inches (96x34x27mm)
Specimen weight: 7 3/8 ounces (210 grams)
Collection: Northridge Campus
For reference: the U.S. penny is ¾ in. [19.05 mm] in diameter.
Distinguishing Physical Properties:
Immediately you should notice the color (light pink, or salmon). This mineral can present other colors, but if you see this color it should be diagnostic.
You can see the reflections off the top surface (plane), and you can guess the facing side is also cleavage (close to 90 degrees).
Thin white "threads" that appear randomly within the pink matrix is not uncommon (defined as lamillae) of another mineral that occurs during cooling.