The name Apophyllite means "to leaf apart" in Greek, is a mineral classic. It was given its name because crystals tend to peel or flake apart when they are heated due to the loss of water molecules. Although not that well-known by the general public, apophyllite is quite popular among mineral collectors. It has beauty, pastel colors, a bright luster, interesting well formed habits, unusual associations with other exotic minerals.
Unfortunately, apophyllite is not a mineral ! Not officially at least. Apophyllite is a general term for three official minerals that are similar in their chemistry and physical properties.
Fluorapophyllite is by far the most abundant and colorful of the three and is usually what is referred to when a specimen is just labeled apophyllite.
Hydroxyapophyllite is also relatively common, but specimens typically lack any color and are limited to pseudo-cubic crystal habits.
The natroapophyllite is quite rare and is found at only a few localities. Its typical brown color can help distinguish it from its close cousins. Natroapophyllite, by virtue of its more significant chemical and symmetrical difference, is truly a distinct mineral.