Arsenogoyazite is a rare member of the alunite supergroup typically found as small, rhombohedral crystals in the oxidation zones of arsenic-rich ore deposits. Collectors primarily seek this mineral from world-class localities like the Tsumeb Mine, where it forms in association with other rare arsenate minerals.

Hardness

4-5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareAlunite Supergroup family

Arsenogoyazite

Hardness: 4-5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this arsenogoyazite?

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 arsenogoyazite with a known reference. Arsenogoyazite sits at Mohs 4-5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Arsenogoyazite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenogoyazite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: white, colorless, pale yellow.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals.

Often confused with

Arsenogoyazite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Arsenogoyazite leaves white, Beudantite leaves yellow.

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Often found alongside arsenogoyazite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: SrAl₃(AsO₄)(OH)₆
Mohs hardness: 4-5
Density: 3.5-3.6 g/cm³
Colors: White Colorless Pale Yellow
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Rhombohedral Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Hydrothermal Polymetallic Ore Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find arsenogoyazite

Classic worldwide localities

Tsumeb Mine, Namibia
Schwarzwald, Germany

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized hydrothermal polymetallic ore deposits country — that is the host setting where arsenogoyazite typically forms. If you start seeing arseniosiderite, scorodite, tsumcorite 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 arsenogoyazite?+

Mohs hardness is 4-5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include white, colorless, pale yellow.

Where is arsenogoyazite found?+

Notable localities include Tsumeb Mine, Namibia; Schwarzwald, Germany.

How much is arsenogoyazite 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 arsenogoyazite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic; handle with care, wash hands thoroughly after handling, and avoid creating dust when breaking or grinding. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like arsenogoyazite?+

Arsenogoyazite is most often confused with Goyazite, Beudantite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with arsenogoyazite?+

Arsenogoyazite commonly co-occurs with Arseniosiderite, Scorodite, Tsumcorite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does arsenogoyazite form in?+

Arsenogoyazite typically forms in oxidized hydrothermal polymetallic ore deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is arsenogoyazite used for?+

Arsenogoyazite is used in collector.

Find arsenogoyazite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.