Miguelromeroite is a rare manganese arsenate mineral found in the oxidized zones of ore deposits. It typically forms small, transparent yellow or orange crystals and is highly prized by micromounters and advanced mineral collectors.

Hardness
3-4
Mohs
Luster
Vitreous
Streak
White
Transparency
Transparent

Is this miguelromeroite?

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 miguelromeroite with a known reference. Miguelromeroite sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
  • 2
    Check the streak
    Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Miguelromeroite leaves a white streak.
  • 3
    Read the luster
    Hold the specimen under a strong light. Miguelromeroite typically shows a vitreous luster.
  • 4
    Match the color range
    Compare against the expected color range: yellow, yellowish-orange.
  • 5
    Look at form & habit
    Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: equant to short prismatic crystals, often as crusts.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside miguelromeroite

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

All properties

Chemical formula
Mn₅(AsO₃OH)₂(AsO₄)₂·10H₂O
Mohs hardness
3-4
Density
3.37 g/cm³
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous
Transparency
Transparent
Crystal system
Monoclinic
Crystal habit
Equant to Short Prismatic Crystals, Often as Crusts
Cleavage
Perfect On {100}
Rarity
Rare
Uses
Collector
Host rock
Oxidized Hydrothermal Zones in Mineral Deposits
Typical price
$50-500 depending on specimen quality and size

Where rockhounds find miguelromeroite

Classic worldwide localities

  • Mapimi, Durango, Mexico

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized hydrothermal zones in mineral deposits country — that is the host setting where miguelromeroite typically forms. If you start seeing adamite, conichalcite, aragonite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a equant to short prismatic crystals, often as crusts habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify miguelromeroite?+
Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, yellowish-orange.
Where is miguelromeroite found?+
Notable localities include Mapimi, Durango, Mexico.
How much is miguelromeroite worth?+
Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen quality and size. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.
Is miguelromeroite safe to handle?+
It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic. Handle with care, wash hands after touching, and avoid inhalation of dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.
What rocks look like miguelromeroite?+
Miguelromeroite is most often confused with Hureaulite, Vendidaite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.
What minerals are found with miguelromeroite?+
Miguelromeroite commonly co-occurs with Adamite, Conichalcite, Aragonite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.
What kind of rock does miguelromeroite form in?+
Miguelromeroite typically forms in oxidized hydrothermal zones in mineral deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.
What is miguelromeroite used for?+
Miguelromeroite is used in collector.

Find miguelromeroite on the map

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