Arsenoflorencite-(La) is a rare arsenic-bearing member of the alunite supergroup typically found as small rhombohedral crystals. It is a secondary mineral that occurs in weathered hydrothermal deposits and is highly sought after by systematic mineral collectors.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareFlorencite Subgroup family

Arsenoflorencite-(La)

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

Is this arsenoflorencite-(la)?

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-(la) with a known reference. Arsenoflorencite-(La) 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-(La) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenoflorencite-(La) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: white, yellowish, brownish.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside arsenoflorencite-(la)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: LaAsO₄(OH)₆
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 4.15 g/cm³
Colors: White Yellowish Brownish
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Rhombohedral Crystals
Cleavage: Distinct On {0001}
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins and Secondary Weathering Zones
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find arsenoflorencite-(la)

Classic worldwide localities

Brazil
Australia
China

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins and secondary weathering zones country — that is the host setting where arsenoflorencite-(la) typically forms. If you start seeing kaolinite, quartz, turquoise 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-(la)?+

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

Where is arsenoflorencite-(la) found?+

Notable localities include Brazil; Australia; China.

How much is arsenoflorencite-(la) 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-(la) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic if inhaled or ingested; handle with care and wash hands thoroughly after contact. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like arsenoflorencite-(la)?+

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

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

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

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

Arsenoflorencite-(La) typically forms in hydrothermal veins and secondary weathering zones. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is arsenoflorencite-(la) used for?+

Arsenoflorencite-(La) is used in collector.

Find arsenoflorencite-(la) on the map

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