How do I identify Huntite?

Huntite can be identified by its hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale, White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Huntite?

Huntite typically appears in White. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

Huntite has a hardness of 1 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

How to Identify Huntite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Huntite?

Huntite is a carbonate mineral with the chemical formula Mg3Ca(CO3)4. Huntite crystallizes in the trigonal system and typically occurs as platy crystals and powdery masses. The most common industrial use of huntite is as a natural mixture with hydromagnesite as a flame retardant or fire retardant additive for polymers.

Huntite Market Value Calculator

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

Huntite Localities Map

See where Huntite 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

Characteristics of Huntite

Huntite often occurs in combination with other Mg/Ca carbonates such as dolomite, magnesite, and hydromagnesite. Large deposits of huntite occur in Turkey and Greece and these are commercially exploited because of its fire retardant properties. Huntite thermally decomposes over a temperature range of about 450–800 °C, releasing carbon dioxide and leaving a residue of magnesium and calcium oxides.

Quick Facts