Geigerite

A variety of Minerals

What is Geigerite?

Geigerite is a mineral, a complex hydrous manganese arsenate with formula: Mn5(AsO3OH)2(AsO4)2·10H2O. It forms triclinic pinacoidal, vitreous, colorless to red to brown crystals. It has a Mohs hardness of 3 and a specific gravity of 3.05. It was discovered in Grischun, Switzerland in 1989. It was named in honor of Thomas Geiger (1886–1976), Wiesendangen, Switzerland, who studied the Falotta manganese ores.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Geigerite 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.

Key Characteristics

Composition of Geigerite

The chemical composition of geigerite is hydrous manganese arsenate (Mn5(AsO3OH)2(AsO4)2·10H2O). The chemical composition was found by using an electron microprobe in the Falotta mines in Switzerland.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Hardness (Mohs)
3
Rock tumbling
Not recommended

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Mn2+5(AsO4)2(HAsO4)2 · 10H2O
Elements
As, H, Mn, O
FREE APPTrusted by rockhounds
Ruby Glint rock identifier app

Identify Geigerite Instantly

  • Snap a photo, get instant results
  • 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
  • Discover collecting spots near you

Geigerite FAQs

How do I identify Geigerite?

Geigerite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

How hard is Geigerite?

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

What is the composition of geigerite of Geigerite?

The chemical composition of geigerite is hydrous manganese arsenate (Mn5(AsO3OH)2(AsO4)2·10H2O). The chemical composition was found by using an electron microprobe in the Falotta mines in Switzerland.

Related Minerals

Explore More Rocks & Minerals