Gasparite-(Ce) is a rare arsenic-bearing member of the monazite group, typically found as small, distinct crystals in alpine-type veins. Collectors should look for it in high-grade metamorphic environments associated with quartz and carbonate minerals. Due to its arsenic and radioactive components, it requires careful storage and handling protocols.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMonazite Group family

Gasparite-(Ce)

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this gasparite-(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 gasparite-(ce) with a known reference. Gasparite-(Ce) sits at Mohs 5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Gasparite-(Ce) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Gasparite-(Ce) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brownish-yellow, reddish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: small prismatic crystals or aggregates.

Often confused with

Gasparite-(Ce) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Monazite-(Ce)

Mohs 5-5.5

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Gasparite-(Ce) and resinous on Monazite-(Ce).

Often found alongside gasparite-(ce)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CeAsO₄
Mohs hardness: 5
Density: 5.3 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brownish-yellow Reddish-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Small Prismatic Crystals or Aggregates
Cleavage: Distinct On {100}
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Veins in Metamorphic Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find gasparite-(ce)

Classic worldwide localities

Binn Valley, Switzerland
Piz Begn, Switzerland
Gottardo Pass, Switzerland

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal veins in metamorphic rocks country — that is the host setting where gasparite-(ce) typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, dolomite, anatase in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a small prismatic crystals or aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify gasparite-(ce)?+

Mohs hardness is 5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brownish-yellow, reddish-brown.

Where is gasparite-(ce) found?+

Notable localities include Binn Valley, Switzerland; Piz Begn, Switzerland; Gottardo Pass, Switzerland.

How much is gasparite-(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.

Is gasparite-(ce) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic and trace rare earth elements; radioactive due to thorium impurities common in monazite group minerals. Handle with care, avoid dust inhalation, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like gasparite-(ce)?+

Gasparite-(Ce) is most often confused with Monazite-(Ce), Cheralite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

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

Gasparite-(Ce) commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Dolomite, Anatase, Rutill, Hematite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

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

Gasparite-(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 gasparite-(ce) used for?+

Gasparite-(Ce) is used in collector.

Find gasparite-(ce) on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.