This kind of alteration from one mineral to another leaves the original shape of the crystal. Borax is directly deposited in arid regions from the evaporation of water in intermittent lakes called playas. The playas form only during rainy seasons due to runoff from adjacent mountains. The runoff is rich in the element boron and is highly concentrated by evaporation in the arid climate. Eventually the concentration is so great that crystals of borax and other boron minerals form.
Color is white to clear.
Luster is vitreous. Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent. Also massive and as crusts. Cleavage is perfect in one direction. Fracture is conchoidal.