How do I identify Carlfriesite?

Carlfriesite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Carlfriesite?

Carlfriesite typically appears in Yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Carlfriesite?

Carlfriesite has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Carlfriesite

A variety of Minerals

What is Carlfriesite?

Carlfriesite is a rare tellurium mineral with the formula CaTe2TeO8, or more simplified: CaTe3O8. It has a Moh's hardness of 3.5 and it occurs in various shades of yellow, ranging from bright yellow to a light buttery color. It was named after Carl Fries Jr. (1910–1965) from the U.S. Geological Survey and the Geological Institute of the National University, Mexico City, Mexico. It was previously thought to have the formula H4Ca(TeO3)3, but this was proven to be incorrect. It has no uses beyond being a collector's item.

Carlfriesite Market Value Calculator

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

Carlfriesite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Formation of Carlfriesite

Carlfriesite is often found in cavities in hydrothermal gold-tellurium deposits. It is found associated with cerussite, chlorargyrite, argentian gold, cesbronite, calcite, dickite, baryte, bornite, galena, hessite and tlapallite. It was first identified in the Bambollita (La Oriental), Moctezuma, Municipio de Moctezuma, Sonora, Mexico. It is also found in another nearby mine, namely the Moctezuma mine.