Arsenowagnerite is a very rare mineral belonging to the wagnerite group, characterized by the substitution of arsenic for phosphorus. It is primarily known from the historic Långban mining district in Sweden, where it occurs within metamorphic manganese-rich ores. Due to its extreme rarity and complex paragenesis, it is considered a specialized target for advanced mineral collectors.

Hardness

5-5.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareWagnerite Group family

Arsenowagnerite

Hardness: 5-5.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this arsenowagnerite?

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 arsenowagnerite with a known reference. Arsenowagnerite sits at Mohs 5-5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Arsenowagnerite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Arsenowagnerite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellowish-brown, brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: anhedral to subhedral grains.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside arsenowagnerite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Mg₂AsO₄F
Mohs hardness: 5-5.5
Density: 3.84 g/cm³
Colors: Yellowish-brown Brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Anhedral to Subhedral Grains
Cleavage: Poor
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphosed Iron-manganese Ore Deposits
Typical price: n/a

Where rockhounds find arsenowagnerite

Classic worldwide localities

Långban, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphosed iron-manganese ore deposits country — that is the host setting where arsenowagnerite typically forms. If you start seeing hausmannite, dolomite, barite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a anhedral to subhedral grains habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify arsenowagnerite?+

Mohs hardness is 5-5.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellowish-brown, brown.

Where is arsenowagnerite found?+

Notable localities include Långban, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden.

How much is arsenowagnerite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of n/a. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is arsenowagnerite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like arsenowagnerite?+

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

What minerals are found with arsenowagnerite?+

Arsenowagnerite commonly co-occurs with Hausmannite, Dolomite, Barite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does arsenowagnerite form in?+

Arsenowagnerite typically forms in metamorphosed iron-manganese ore deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is arsenowagnerite used for?+

Arsenowagnerite is used in collector.

Find arsenowagnerite on the map

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