Bakerite
A variety of Datolite
What is Bakerite?
Bakerite is the common name given to hydrated calcium boro-silicate hydroxide, a borosilicate mineral (chemical formula Ca4B4(BO4)(SiO4)3(OH)3·(H2O)) that occurs in volcanic rocks in the Baker, California area. Discredited mineral: IMA2016-A. It was first described in 1903 for an occurrence in the Corkscrew Canyon Mine of the Black Mountains, Furnace Creek District, Death Valley National Park, Inyo County, California, US. It was named for Richard C. Baker, a director of the Pacific Coast Borax Company.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.621-1.675
- Birefringence
- 0.044-0.045
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
- Dispersion
- 0.016
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Bakerite 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.
Where to Find Bakerite
Bakerite is a variety of Datolite. RockHoundR, the free-to-download rockhounding map from the Ruby Glint team, shows where collectors find datolite in the US, with land-access notes for BLM land and national forests. Collecting is banned in national parks.
See where to find datoliteAlways check the local rules and get the landowner's permission before you collect.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- CaB(SiO4)(OH)
- Elements
- B, Ca, H, O, Si
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