Seven Silicate Sub-Classes
Silicate minerals are classified based on the way SiO■ tetrahedra are arranged and linked. These arrangements
influence physical properties and mineral groups. The seven subclasses are described below.
1. Nesosilicates (Isolated Tetrahedra)
Independent SiO■ tetrahedra linked only by cations. Ratio Si:O = 1:4. Examples: Olivine, Garnet, Zircon.
2. Sorosilicates (Double Tetrahedra)
Two SiO■ tetrahedra share one oxygen (Si■O■). Ratio Si:O = 2:7. Examples: Epidote, Hemimorphite.
3. Cyclosilicates (Ring Silicates)
Tetrahedra form rings of 3, 4, or 6 members. Ratio Si:O = 1:3. Examples: Beryl, Tourmaline.
4. Inosilicates (Single Chain)
Continuous chains of tetrahedra sharing two oxygens. Ratio Si:O = 1:3. Examples: Pyroxenes.
5. Inosilicates (Double Chain)
Two chains link side by side. Ratio Si:O = 4:11. Examples: Amphiboles (Hornblende).
6. Phyllosilicates (Sheet Silicates)
Tetrahedra share three oxygens forming sheets. Ratio Si:O = 2:5. Examples: Micas, Talc, Kaolinite.
7. Tectosilicates (Framework Silicates)
All four oxygens are shared forming 3D framework. Ratio Si:O = 1:2. Examples: Quartz, Feldspars, Zeolites.
Summary Table
Subclass Si:O Ratio Examples
Nesosilicates 1:4 Olivine, Garnet, Zircon
Sorosilicates 2:7 Epidote, Hemimorphite
Cyclosilicates 1:3 Beryl, Tourmaline
Inosilicates (Single) 1:3 Pyroxenes
Inosilicates (Double) 4:11 Amphiboles
Phyllosilicates 2:5 Micas, Talc, Kaolinite
Tectosilicates 1:2 Quartz, Feldspars, Zeolites
