How do I identify Hydroxylherderite?

Hydroxylherderite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Hydroxylherderite?

Hydroxylherderite typically appears in Colorless, gray, brown, pale yellow, greenish white, light blue, purple; colourless in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Hydroxylherderite?

Hydroxylherderite has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

How to Identify Hydroxylherderite | Properties, Meaning & Uses

What is Hydroxylherderite?

Herderite is a phosphate mineral belonging to the apatite, phosphate group, with formula CaBe(PO4)(F,OH). It forms monoclinic crystals, often twinned and variable in colour from colourless through yellow to green. It forms a series with the more common hydroxylherderite, which has more hydroxyl ion than fluoride. It is found in many parts of the world, often in pegmatites and associated with other apatite minerals. It was first described in 1828 for an occurrence in the Sauberg Mine, Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany. It was named for Saxon mining official Sigmund August Wolfgang von Herder (1776–1838).

Hydroxylherderite Market Value Calculator

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

Hydroxylherderite Localities Map

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

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North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Colorless, gray, brown, pale yellow, greenish white, light blue, purple; colourless in transmitted light.
Hardness (Mohs): 5 - 5.5
Density: 3 g/cm³
Streak: white