Florencite-(sm)

Florencite-(Sm)

A variety of Plumbogummite Group

What is Florencite-(sm)?

Florencite-(Sm) is a very rare mineral of the plumbogummite group (alunite supergroup) with simplified formula SmAl3(PO4)2(OH)6. Samarium in florencite-(Sm) is substituted by other rare earth elements, mostly neodymium. It does not form separate crystals, but is found as zones in florencite-(Ce), which is cerium-dominant member of the plumbogummite group. Florencite-(Sm) is also a samarium-analogue of florencite-(La) (lanthanum-dominant) and waylandite (bismuth-dominant), both being aluminium-rich minerals.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Florencite-(sm) 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Florencite-(sm) Localities Map

See where Florencite-(sm) is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Key Characteristics

Formation of Florencite-(sm)

Florencite-(Sm) was revealed in quartz veins in the Maldynyrd Range, Subpolar Urals, Russia. It associates with xenotime-(Y).

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Colourless
Hardness (Mohs)
5.5 - 6
Density
3.743 g/cm³
Streak
White

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
SmAl3(PO4)2(OH)6
Elements
Al, H, O, P, Sm
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Florencite-(sm) FAQs

How do I identify Florencite-(sm)?

Florencite-(sm) can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Florencite-(sm)?

Florencite-(sm) typically appears in Colourless. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Florencite-(sm)?

Florencite-(sm) has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

What is the formation of florencite-(sm) of Florencite-(sm)?

Florencite-(Sm) was revealed in quartz veins in the Maldynyrd Range, Subpolar Urals, Russia. It associates with xenotime-(Y).

Related Plumbogummite Group

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