Sassolite

A variety of Minerals

Sassolite specimen

What is Sassolite?

Sassolite is a borate mineral, and is the mineral form of boric acid. It occurs in volcanic fumaroles and hot springs, as well as in bedded sedimentary evaporite deposits. Its mineral form was first described in 1800, and was named after Sasso Pisano, Castelnuovo Val di Cecina, Pisa Province, Tuscany, Italy where it was found. The mineral may be found in lagoons throughout Tuscany and Sasso. Usually coloured white to gray, it is colourless in transmitted light, and can also take on a yellow colour from sulfur impurities, or brown from iron oxides.

Market Value Factors

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

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
White to grey, occasionally colourless, yellow or brown.
Hardness (Mohs)
1
Rock tumbling
Not recommended
Density
1.48 g/cm³
Streak
White

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
H3BO3
Elements
B, H, O

Also Known As

SassoliteNative Boracic AcidSal sedativum
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Sassolite FAQs

How do I identify Sassolite?

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

What color is Sassolite?

Sassolite typically appears in White to grey, occasionally colourless, yellow or brown.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Sassolite?

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

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