Aphthitalite
A variety of Minerals
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.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Aphthitalite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless (rare), white, grey, bluish, greenish, reddish; colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- Density
- 2.72 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (K,Na)3Na(SO4)2
- Elements
- K, Na, O, S
Also Known As
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Aphthitalite FAQs
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.
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