Arsenogorceixite is an extremely rare phosphate-arsenate mineral of the plumbogummite group found in the oxidized zones of ore deposits. It typically forms as small crusts or microcrystalline coatings on other minerals, making it a challenging species for collectors to identify without analytical testing.
Is this arsenogorceixite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch arsenogorceixite with a known reference. Arsenogorceixite sits at Mohs 5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Arsenogorceixite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenogorceixite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless, yellowish-white.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: microcrystalline aggregates, crusts.
Often confused with
Arsenogorceixite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside arsenogorceixite
Minerals reported to co-occur with arsenogorceixite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- BaAl₃(AsO₄)(AsO₃OH)(OH)₆
- Mohs hardness
- 5
- Density
- 4.2 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Microcrystalline Aggregates, Crusts
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Oxidized Zones of Hydrothermal Base Metal Deposits
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find arsenogorceixite
Classic worldwide localities
- Tsumeb Mine, Namibia
- Schwarzwald, Germany
Field-hunting tip
Look in oxidized zones of hydrothermal base metal deposits country — that is the host setting where arsenogorceixite typically forms. If you start seeing tsumcorite, arseniosiderite, mimetite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a microcrystalline aggregates, crusts habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify arsenogorceixite?+
Where is arsenogorceixite found?+
How much is arsenogorceixite worth?+
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What rocks look like arsenogorceixite?+
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Find arsenogorceixite on the map
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