Retzian-(La) is an extremely rare arsenate mineral member of the retzian group. It is primarily found in the metamorphosed manganese mines of Sweden as small, reddish-brown crystals, and it requires advanced analytical methods for positive identification due to its similarity to other members of the group.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Yellowish

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareRetzian Group family

Retzian-(La)

Hardness: 4
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Yellowish
Transparency: Translucent

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Is this retzian-(la)?

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 retzian-(la) with a known reference. Retzian-(La) sits at Mohs 4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Retzian-(La) leaves a yellowish streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Retzian-(La) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: brown, reddish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, granular masses.

Often confused with

Retzian-(La) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Retzian-(La) leaves yellowish, Retzian-(Nd) leaves white.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Retzian-(La) leaves yellowish, Retzian-(Ce) leaves light brown.

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Often found alongside retzian-(la)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Mn₂(Mn,Mg)(La,Ce)(AsO₄)(OH)₄
Mohs hardness: 4
Density: 4.74 g/cm³
Colors: Brown Reddish-brown
Streak: Yellowish
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals, Granular Masses
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphosed Manganese Ore Deposits
Typical price: $100-500 depending on specimen quality and rarity

Where rockhounds find retzian-(la)

Classic worldwide localities

Langban, Sweden
Jakobsberg, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphosed manganese ore deposits country — that is the host setting where retzian-(la) typically forms. If you start seeing hausmannite, barite, calcite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, granular masses habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify retzian-(la)?+

Mohs hardness is 4. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is yellowish. Common colors include brown, reddish-brown.

Where is retzian-(la) found?+

Notable localities include Langban, Sweden; Jakobsberg, Sweden.

How much is retzian-(la) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-500 depending on specimen quality and rarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is retzian-(la) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic, which is toxic. Handle with care, wash hands after touching, and do not ingest or inhale dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like retzian-(la)?+

Retzian-(La) is most often confused with Retzian-(Nd), Retzian-(Ce). A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with retzian-(la)?+

Retzian-(La) commonly co-occurs with Hausmannite, Barite, Calcite, Dolomite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does retzian-(la) form in?+

Retzian-(La) typically forms in metamorphosed manganese ore deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is retzian-(la) used for?+

Retzian-(La) is used in collector.

Find retzian-(la) on the map

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