Scorzalite is the iron-dominant member of the lazulite group and is prized by collectors for its intense deep blue color. It is typically found in high-grade metamorphic rocks and pegmatites where it often appears as massive, granular aggregates. Because of its scarcity and potential for rich color, it is highly sought after by mineral collectors and occasionally used in cabochon cutting.
Is this scorzalite?
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 scorzalite with a known reference. Scorzalite sits at Mohs 5.5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Scorzalite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Scorzalite typically shows a vitreous luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: blue, dark blue, azure.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: massive, granular, or rare dipyramidal crystals.
Often confused with
Scorzalite vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.
Often found alongside scorzalite
Minerals reported to co-occur with scorzalite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Fe²⁺Al₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂
- Mohs hardness
- 5.5-6
- Density
- 3.3-3.4 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Transparency
- Translucent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Massive, Granular, Or Rare Dipyramidal Crystals
- Cleavage
- Distinct in One Direction
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector, Lapidary
- Host rock
- Metamorphic Rocks, Specifically Phosphate-rich Pegmatites and Quartzites
- Typical price
- $20-150 thumbnail, $200+ cabinet specimen
Where rockhounds find scorzalite
Classic worldwide localities
- Minas Gerais, Brazil
- South Dakota, USA
- White Mountain, California, USA
- Yukon, Canada
Field-hunting tip
Look in metamorphic rocks, specifically phosphate-rich pegmatites and quartzites country — that is the host setting where scorzalite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, muscovite, andalusite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a massive, granular, or rare dipyramidal crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify scorzalite?+
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How much is scorzalite worth?+
What rocks look like scorzalite?+
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Find scorzalite on the map
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