Gallobeudantite is a very rare member of the alunite supergroup known for its distinct yellowish rhombohedral crystals. It is typically found in the oxidized zones of complex base metal deposits, specifically where gallium is present as an trace impurity. Collectors prize it as a rare mineralogical curiosity from classic lead-zinc mining localities.
Is this gallobeudantite?
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 gallobeudantite with a known reference. Gallobeudantite sits at Mohs 3.5-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Gallobeudantite leaves a yellow streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Gallobeudantite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: yellow, greenish-yellow, brown.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals.
Often confused with
Gallobeudantite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside gallobeudantite
Minerals reported to co-occur with gallobeudantite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- PbGa₃(AsO₄)(SO₄)(OH)₆
- Mohs hardness
- 3.5-4
- Density
- 4.2-4.5 g/cm³
- Streak
- Yellow
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- Crystal habit
- Rhombohedral Crystals
- Cleavage
- None
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Oxidized Hydrothermal Lead-zinc Ore Deposits
- Typical price
- $50-300 per specimen
Where rockhounds find gallobeudantite
Classic worldwide localities
- Tsumeb Mine, Namibia
- Mapimi, Mexico
- Laurion, Greece
Field-hunting tip
Look in oxidized hydrothermal lead-zinc ore deposits country — that is the host setting where gallobeudantite typically forms. If you start seeing tsumcorite, mimetite, anglesite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a rhombohedral crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify gallobeudantite?+
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Find gallobeudantite on the map
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