Vanackerite is a rare lead-arsenic vanadate member of the apatite group. It typically appears as yellowish, prismatic crystals found in the oxidized zones of lead-bearing hydrothermal ore deposits.

Hardness

3.5-4

Mohs

Luster

Adamantine

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareApatite Group family

Vanackerite

Vanackerite is a rare lead-arsenic vanadate member of the apatite group. It typically appears as yellowish, prismatic crystals found in the oxidized zones of lead-bearing hydrothermal ore deposits.

Hardness: 3.5-4
Luster: Adamantine
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this vanackerite?

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 vanackerite with a known reference. Vanackerite sits at Mohs 3.5-4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Vanackerite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Vanackerite typically shows a adamantine luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brownish-yellow, orange.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: hexagonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

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

How to tell apart: Luster reads adamantine on Vanackerite and resinous on Pyromorphite.

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Often found alongside vanackerite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Pb₅(AsO₄)₃Cl
Mohs hardness: 3.5-4
Density: 6.58 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brownish-yellow Orange
Streak: White
Luster: Adamantine
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: Indistinct
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Lead Deposits
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity

Where rockhounds find vanackerite

Classic worldwide localities

Mibladen, Morocco

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized lead deposits country, the host setting where vanackerite typically forms. If you start seeing cerussite, baryte, anglesite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify vanackerite?+

Mohs hardness is 3.5-4. It typically shows a adamantine luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brownish-yellow, orange.

Where is vanackerite found?+

Notable localities include Mibladen, Morocco.

How much is vanackerite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is vanackerite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead and arsenic; handle with care and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Do not ingest dust or inhale powder. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like vanackerite?+

Vanackerite is most often confused with Mimetite, Pyromorphite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with vanackerite?+

Vanackerite commonly co-occurs with Cerussite, Baryte, Anglesite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does vanackerite form in?+

Vanackerite typically forms in oxidized lead deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is vanackerite used for?+

Vanackerite is used in collector.

Find vanackerite on the map

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