Hectorfloresite is a rare sodium zinc sulfate arsenate that typically forms in arid evaporite environments. It is most recognized for its occurrence at the Hector Mine in California, where it is found as thin, tabular crystals or fine-grained masses associated with other secondary minerals.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Hectorfloresite

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

No image

Is this hectorfloresite?

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 hectorfloresite with a known reference. Hectorfloresite 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. Hectorfloresite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Hectorfloresite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: white, colorless.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, massive, granular.

Often found alongside hectorfloresite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Na₉Zn₄(SO₄)(AsO₄)₃(OH)₆
Mohs hardness: 3
Density: 3.51 g/cm³
Colors: White Colorless
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals, Massive, Granular
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Evaporite Deposits in Arid Desert Environments
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen depending on size and quality

Where rockhounds find hectorfloresite

Classic worldwide localities

Hector Mine, California, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in evaporite deposits in arid desert environments country — that is the host setting where hectorfloresite typically forms. If you start seeing jarosite, gypsum, halite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify hectorfloresite?+

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

Where is hectorfloresite found?+

Notable localities include Hector Mine, California, USA.

How much is hectorfloresite worth?+

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

Is hectorfloresite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What minerals are found with hectorfloresite?+

Hectorfloresite commonly co-occurs with Jarosite, Gypsum, Halite, Thenardite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does hectorfloresite form in?+

Hectorfloresite typically forms in evaporite deposits in arid desert environments. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is hectorfloresite used for?+

Hectorfloresite is used in collector.

Find hectorfloresite on the map

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