Springcreekite is a rare phosphate mineral from the plumbogummite group, typically occurring as small crystals or crusts within weathered phosphate-rich environments. It is most famous for being found in the Spring Creek area of Queensland, where it forms in association with other iron and phosphate minerals.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrarePlumbogummite Group family

Springcreekite

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this springcreekite?

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 springcreekite with a known reference. Springcreekite sits at Mohs 5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Springcreekite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Springcreekite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: crusts and minute crystals.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside springcreekite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Sr₃Fe³⁺₃(PO₄)₂(OH)₅(H₂O)
Mohs hardness: 5
Density: 4.2 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Crusts and Minute Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Weathered Phosphate Deposits
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen depending on size and rarity

Where rockhounds find springcreekite

Classic worldwide localities

Spring Creek, Queensland, Australia

Field-hunting tip

Look in weathered phosphate deposits country, the host setting where springcreekite typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, goethite, hematite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a crusts and minute crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify springcreekite?+

Mohs hardness is 5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown.

Where is springcreekite found?+

Notable localities include Spring Creek, Queensland, Australia.

How much is springcreekite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen depending on size and rarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is springcreekite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains strontium and iron; avoid inhaling dust during specimen preparation and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like springcreekite?+

Springcreekite is most often confused with Gorceixite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with springcreekite?+

Springcreekite commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Goethite, Hematite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does springcreekite form in?+

Springcreekite typically forms in weathered phosphate deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is springcreekite used for?+

Springcreekite is used in collector.

Find springcreekite on the map

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