Galgenbergite-(Ce) is an extremely rare calcium-cerium carbonate mineral first discovered at the Galgenberg locality in Germany. It typically forms small, platy, pseudo-hexagonal crystals that can be confused with other rare-earth minerals like parisite or bastnäsite. Collectors usually acquire it in micro-mounts or small specimens due to its limited global distribution.

Hardness

4-4.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareParisite Group family

Galgenbergite-(Ce)

Hardness: 4-4.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

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Is this galgenbergite-(ce)?

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 galgenbergite-(ce) with a known reference. Galgenbergite-(Ce) sits at Mohs 4-4.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Galgenbergite-(Ce) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Galgenbergite-(Ce) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, tan.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: platy crystals, pseudo-hexagonal clusters.

Often found alongside galgenbergite-(ce)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CaCe₂(CO₃)₄
Mohs hardness: 4-4.5
Density: 4.15 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Tan
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Triclinic
Crystal habit: Platy Crystals, Pseudo-hexagonal Clusters
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins in Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find galgenbergite-(ce)

Classic worldwide localities

Galgenberg, Saxony, Germany

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where galgenbergite-(ce) typically forms. If you start seeing fluorite, quartz, calcite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy crystals, pseudo-hexagonal clusters habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify galgenbergite-(ce)?+

Mohs hardness is 4-4.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, tan.

Where is galgenbergite-(ce) found?+

Notable localities include Galgenberg, Saxony, Germany.

How much is galgenbergite-(ce) 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.

What minerals are found with galgenbergite-(ce)?+

Galgenbergite-(Ce) commonly co-occurs with Fluorite, Quartz, Calcite, Barite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does galgenbergite-(ce) form in?+

Galgenbergite-(Ce) typically forms in hydrothermal veins in metamorphic rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is galgenbergite-(ce) used for?+

Galgenbergite-(Ce) is used in collector.

Find galgenbergite-(ce) on the map

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