Sauconite is a complex phyllosilicate mineral of the smectite clay group, formula Na_0.3Zn₃(SiAl)₄O₁₀(OH)₂·4H₂O. It forms soft earthy bluish white to red-brown monoclinic crystals typically massive to micaceous in habit. It has a Mohs hardness of 1 to 2 and a specific gravity of 2.45. Optically it is biaxial positive with refractive index values of nα = 1.550 - 1.580, nβ = 1.590 - 1.620 and nγ = 1.590 - 1.620.