In an embodiment, the present disclosure pertains to a composition comprising a zeolite with high silica content. In some embodiments, the silica to aluminum ratio (SAR) for the zeolite is 2:1. In some embodiments, the zeolite comprises Zeolite HOU-2 (LTA-type). In some embodiments, the silica to aluminum ratio (SAR) for the zeolite is >3. In some embodiments, the zeolite comprises Zeolite HOU-3 (FAU type). In some embodiments, the zeolite is synthesized using a one-step method. In some embodiments, the zeolite is synthesized without the use of an organic structure-directing agent (OSDA). In some embodiments, the zeolite is synthesized without the use of post-synthesis dealumination. In some embodiments, the zeolite is synthesized without the use crystal seeds. In some embodiments, the zeolite is used in commercial ion exchange. In some embodiments, the zeolite is used for catalysis reaction. In some embodiments, the zeolite is highly thermostable.