Stolzite
A variety of Scheelite Group
What is Stolzite?
Stolzite is very similar to wulfenite but has tungsten instead of molybdenum and is often a paler color. Stolzite can occur in hues of oranges, browns, and yellows. This rare mineral is a secondary mineral that forms around hydrothermal conditions, or where extremely hot water circulates, with good deposits of tungsten.
Uses & Applications
Stolzite is a lung tungstate, which are used in scientific contexts, specifically particle physics. Specimens have a short radiation length and radiation hardness that makes them good scintillators. As a lead tungstate crystal, it is used in one of the particle accelerators at the Large Hadron Collider. This mineral is also popular among collectors.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Stolzite 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.
Stolzite Localities Map
See where Stolzite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Stolzite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Lead, Tungsten.
- ⚠️Lead, Tungsten
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle stolzite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing stolzite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store stolzite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Reddish brown, brown, yellowish gray, smoky-gray, gray-brown, straw-yellow, lemon-yellow, orange-yellow, red, green rare
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 8.408 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Resinous, Sub-adamantine
- Crystal System
- Tetragonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Pb(WO4)
- Elements
- O, Pb, W
Also Known As
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Stolzite FAQs
How do I identify Stolzite?
Stolzite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Reddish brown color, Resinous, Sub-adamantine luster, Tetragonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Stolzite?
Stolzite typically appears in Reddish brown, brown, yellowish gray, smoky-gray, gray-brown, straw-yellow, lemon-yellow, orange-yellow, red, green rare. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Stolzite?
Stolzite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
