Hexagonal (or Trigonal) System

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Four axes of symmetry: three, of equal length, lie in a plane at 120°; the fourth axis is longer or shorter and is at right angles to the others.

Crystals are generally prismatic or columnar, with rounded triangular or hexagonal cross section; characteristic forms are three- or six-sided prisms, pyramids, and rhombohedrons. The very similar trigonal system is often included within the hexagonal system. Chesterman, pp. 33-34

Sources

  • Chesterman, Charles W. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, Alfred A. Knopf: New York (1987)