Lipscombite

A variety of Minerals

What is Lipscombite?

Lipscombite (Fe,Mn)(Fe)2(PO4)2(OH)2 is a green gray, olive green, or black. phosphate-based mineral containing iron, magnesium, and iron phosphate. Lipscombite is often formed at meteorite impact sites where its crystals are microscopically small, because crystal-forming conditions of pressure and temperature are brief. In the Classification of non-silicate minerals lipscombite is in the lipscombite group, which also includes zinclipscombite. This group is within the non-silicate, category 8, anhydrous phosphates, lazulite supergroup.

Market Value Factors

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

More Images

Leon Hupperichs

Jslipscomb, photographer.

Quick Facts

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula: Fe²⁺Fe³⁺2(PO₄)₂(OH)₂ Lipscombite from the type locality appears to be Mn²⁺>Fe²⁺ (but based on a pre-microprobe analysis that even its authors remark might be a bit "iffy" with regards to an accurate Fe³⁺/∑Fe ratio). Also, the literature describing lipscombite from other localities have not been evaluated here (yet) for any analytical data that might indicate their Mn²⁺/Fe²⁺ ratios; hence, the possibility exists that the Fe²⁺-dominant composition for which the mineral is officially defined may only be known from synthetic material.
Elements: Fe, H, O, P