Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) is a rare secondary mineral belonging to the florencite group, typically occurring as small rhombohedral crystals. It is primarily identified by its characteristic association with arsenic-rich environments in hydrothermally altered host rocks.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareFlorencite Group family

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce)

Hardness: 5-6
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this arsenoflorencite-(ce)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch arsenoflorencite-(ce) with a known reference. Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals.

Often confused with

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside arsenoflorencite-(ce)

Minerals reported to co-occur with arsenoflorencite-(ce). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: CeAsAl₃(PO₄)₂(OH)₆
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 4.15 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Rhombohedral Crystals
Cleavage: Poor
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Tin Deposits and Kaolinized Rhyolite
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find arsenoflorencite-(ce)

Classic worldwide localities

Black Range, New Mexico, USA
Itambe, Brazil

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal tin deposits and kaolinized rhyolite country — that is the host setting where arsenoflorencite-(ce) typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, hematite, kaolinite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a rhombohedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify arsenoflorencite-(ce)?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, colorless.

Where is arsenoflorencite-(ce) found?+

Notable localities include Black Range, New Mexico, USA; Itambe, Brazil.

How much is arsenoflorencite-(ce) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is arsenoflorencite-(ce) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic if ingested or inhaled as dust; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid creating dust when breaking specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like arsenoflorencite-(ce)?+

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) is most often confused with Gorceixite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with arsenoflorencite-(ce)?+

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Hematite, Kaolinite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does arsenoflorencite-(ce) form in?+

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) typically forms in hydrothermal tin deposits and kaolinized rhyolite. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is arsenoflorencite-(ce) used for?+

Arsenoflorencite-(Ce) is used in collector.

Find arsenoflorencite-(ce) on the map

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