Grootfonteinite is a rare lead carbonate mineral originally described from the lead-rich deposits near Grootfontein, Namibia. It typically occurs as small, clear, rhombohedral crystals associated with other secondary lead minerals in oxidized ore zones.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrarenull family

Grootfonteinite

Hardness: 3
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

No image

Is this grootfonteinite?

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 grootfonteinite with a known reference. Grootfonteinite sits at Mohs 3 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Grootfonteinite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Grootfonteinite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: white, colorless, pale yellow.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: rhombohedral crystals.

Often confused with

Grootfonteinite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Cerussite

Mohs 3-3.5

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Grootfonteinite and adamantine on Cerussite.

How to tell apart: Luster reads vitreous on Grootfonteinite and pearly on Hydrocerussite.

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Often found alongside grootfonteinite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₃O₂(CO₃)
Mohs hardness: 3
Density: 3.37 g/cm³
Colors: White Colorless Pale Yellow
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Rhombohedral Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Lead Deposits
Typical price: $50-500 per specimen

Where rockhounds find grootfonteinite

Classic worldwide localities

Grootfontein, Namibia

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized lead deposits country — that is the host setting where grootfonteinite typically forms. If you start seeing cerussite, hydrocerussite, galena 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 grootfonteinite?+

Mohs hardness is 3. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include white, colorless, pale yellow.

Where is grootfonteinite found?+

Notable localities include Grootfontein, Namibia.

How much is grootfonteinite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is grootfonteinite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like grootfonteinite?+

Grootfonteinite is most often confused with Cerussite, Hydrocerussite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with grootfonteinite?+

Grootfonteinite commonly co-occurs with Cerussite, Hydrocerussite, Galena. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does grootfonteinite form in?+

Grootfonteinite typically forms in oxidized lead deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is grootfonteinite used for?+

Grootfonteinite is used in collector.

Find grootfonteinite on the map

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