Nizamoffite is a very rare phosphate mineral typically found as small, clear, equant crystals within phosphate-rich zones of granite pegmatites. It is best identified by its association with secondary phosphate minerals and its distinct crystal form in specialized pegmatite assemblages.
Is this nizamoffite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch nizamoffite with a known reference. Nizamoffite sits at Mohs 4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Nizamoffite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Nizamoffite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: colorless, white, pale yellow.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: equant crystals.
Often confused with
Nizamoffite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside nizamoffite
Minerals reported to co-occur with nizamoffite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Mn²⁺Zn₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂·H₂O
- Mohs hardness
- 4
- Density
- 3.31 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
- Crystal habit
- Equant Crystals
- Cleavage
- Distinct On {110}
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Granite Pegmatites
- Typical price
- $50-500 depending on specimen quality
Where rockhounds find nizamoffite
Classic worldwide localities
- Palermo No. 1 Mine, USA
Field-hunting tip
Look in granite pegmatites country, the host setting where nizamoffite typically forms. If you start seeing triphylite, apatite, muscovite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a equant crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify nizamoffite?+
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Find nizamoffite on the map
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