How do I identify Aphthitalite?

Aphthitalite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, Colourless (rare) color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Aphthitalite?

Aphthitalite typically appears in Colourless (rare), white, grey, bluish, greenish, reddish; colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Aphthitalite?

Aphthitalite has a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

How to Identify Aphthitalite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Aphthitalite?

Aphthitalite is a potassium sulfate mineral with the chemical formula: (K,Na)3Na(SO4)2. It was first described in 1835 for an occurrence on Mount Vesuvius, Italy. The name is from the Greek άφθητος, "unalterable", and άλας, "salt", for its stability in air. It occurs as fumarolic incrustations in volcanic environments, as small crystals and masses in evaporite deposits and in guano deposits. It occurs associated with thenardite, jarosite, sylvite and hematite in fumaroles; with blodite, syngenite, mirabilite, picromerite, borax and halite in evaporites; and with syngenite, whitlockite, monetite, niter and gypsum in guano deposits.

Aphthitalite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Aphthitalite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Aphthitalite Localities Map

See where Aphthitalite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.