Ferroqingheiite is a rare phosphate mineral found primarily in granitic pegmatites. It typically occurs as small granular aggregates associated with other phosphate minerals, requiring microscopic analysis for definitive identification.
Is this ferroqingheiite?
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 ferroqingheiite with a known reference. Ferroqingheiite sits at Mohs 4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Ferroqingheiite leaves a pale yellow streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Ferroqingheiite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: dark green, black.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: granular.
Often confused with
Ferroqingheiite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside ferroqingheiite
Minerals reported to co-occur with ferroqingheiite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₂Fe²⁺₂Fe³⁺(PO₄)₃
- Mohs hardness
- 4
- Density
- 3.81 g/cm³
- Colors
- Streak
- Pale Yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Granular
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {101}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Granite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- varies, generally high due to rarity
Where rockhounds find ferroqingheiite
Classic worldwide localities
- Tip Top mine, South Dakota, USA
- Sapucaia pegmatite, Brazil
Field-hunting tip
Look in granite pegmatites country, the host setting where ferroqingheiite typically forms. If you start seeing triphylite, rockbridgeite, apatite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
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Find ferroqingheiite on the map
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