Matlockite is a rare lead halide mineral known for its high refractive index and excellent adamantine luster. It typically forms thin, transparent, tabular crystals in the oxidation zones of lead-bearing ore deposits.

Hardness

2.5-3

Mohs

Luster

Adamantine

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Matlockite

Hardness: 2.5-3
Luster: Adamantine
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

Is this matlockite?

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 matlockite with a known reference. Matlockite sits at Mohs 2.5-3, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Matlockite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Matlockite typically shows a adamantine luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, colorless, white, greenish.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: tabular crystals.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside matlockite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: PbFCl
Mohs hardness: 2.5-3
Density: 7.21 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Colorless White Greenish
Streak: White
Luster: Adamantine
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Tetragonal
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect Basal
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Lead Deposits
Typical price: $50-500 depending on crystal size and quality

Where rockhounds find matlockite

Classic worldwide localities

Matlock, Derbyshire, England
Laurium, Greece
Tsumeb, Namibia
Mammoth-Saint Anthony Mine, Arizona, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized lead deposits country, the host setting where matlockite typically forms. If you start seeing galena, cerussite, anglesite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify matlockite?+

Mohs hardness is 2.5-3. It typically shows a adamantine luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, colorless, white, greenish.

Where is matlockite found?+

Notable localities include Matlock, Derbyshire, England; Laurium, Greece; Tsumeb, Namibia; Mammoth-Saint Anthony Mine, Arizona, USA.

How much is matlockite worth?+

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

Is matlockite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead; avoid inhaling dust and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Keep specimens away from children and pets. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like matlockite?+

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

What minerals are found with matlockite?+

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

What kind of rock does matlockite form in?+

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

What is matlockite used for?+

Matlockite is used in collector.

Find matlockite on the map

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