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 — that is 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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