Fluorcalcioroméite is a rare member of the pyrochlore supergroup typically found as small, sharp octahedral crystals in manganese-rich metamorphic rocks. It is highly prized by advanced mineral collectors for its distinct symmetry and association with unique mineral assemblages. Collectors should be aware of its toxic antimony content and maintain proper hygiene after physical contact.
Is this fluorcalcioroméite?
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 fluorcalcioroméite with a known reference. Fluorcalcioroméite sits at Mohs 5.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Fluorcalcioroméite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Fluorcalcioroméite typically shows a resinous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, yellowish-brown, colorless.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: cubic. Typical habit: octahedral crystals, massive.
Often confused with
Fluorcalcioroméite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside fluorcalcioroméite
Minerals reported to co-occur with fluorcalcioroméite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Ca₂Sb₂O₆F
- Mohs hardness
- 5.5
- Density
- 5.0-5.3 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Resinous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Cubic
- Crystal habit
- Octahedral Crystals, Massive
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Metamorphosed Manganese Deposits, Hydrothermal Veins
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen depending on crystal quality
Where rockhounds find fluorcalcioroméite
Classic worldwide localities
- San Quirico, Italy
- St. Marcel, Italy
- Varuträsk, Sweden
- Cap Garonne, France
Field-hunting tip
Look in metamorphosed manganese deposits, hydrothermal veins country — that is the host setting where fluorcalcioroméite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, braunite, hematite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a octahedral crystals, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify fluorcalcioroméite?+
Where is fluorcalcioroméite found?+
How much is fluorcalcioroméite worth?+
Is fluorcalcioroméite safe to handle?+
What rocks look like fluorcalcioroméite?+
What minerals are found with fluorcalcioroméite?+
What kind of rock does fluorcalcioroméite form in?+
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Find fluorcalcioroméite on the map
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