Gasparite-(La) is a rare arsenic-bearing member of the monazite group typically found in alpine-type hydrothermal veins. It usually appears as small, inconspicuous brown or yellowish crystals associated with other arsenic minerals like realgar.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareMonazite Group family

Gasparite-(La)

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

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Is this gasparite-(la)?

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-(la) with a known reference. Gasparite-(La) 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-(La) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Gasparite-(La) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, white.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, granular aggregates.

Often confused with

Gasparite-(La) 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-(La) and resinous on Monazite-(Ce).

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Gasparite-(La) and resinous on Chernovite-(Y).

Often found alongside gasparite-(la)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: LaAsO₄
Mohs hardness: 5
Density: 5.3-5.5 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown White
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals, Granular Aggregates
Cleavage: Distinct
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Alpine Veins
Typical price: $50-300 per thumbnail specimen

Where rockhounds find gasparite-(la)

Classic worldwide localities

Binn Valley, Switzerland
Steinkogel, Austria
Shaba Province, DR Congo

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal alpine veins country — that is the host setting where gasparite-(la) typically forms. If you start seeing dolomite, realgar, orpiment in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, granular aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify gasparite-(la)?+

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

Where is gasparite-(la) found?+

Notable localities include Binn Valley, Switzerland; Steinkogel, Austria; Shaba Province, DR Congo.

How much is gasparite-(la) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per thumbnail specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is gasparite-(la) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic; avoid inhaling dust during processing and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like gasparite-(la)?+

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

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

Gasparite-(La) commonly co-occurs with Dolomite, Realgar, Orpiment, Anatase. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

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

Gasparite-(La) typically forms in hydrothermal alpine veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is gasparite-(la) used for?+

Gasparite-(La) is used in collector.

Find gasparite-(la) on the map

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