Tlalocite
A variety of Minerals
What is Tlalocite?
Tlalocite is a rare and complex tellurate mineral with the formula Cu10Zn6(TeO4)2(TeO3)(OH)25Cl · 27 H2O. It has a Mohs hardness of 1, and a cyan color. It was named after Tlaloc, the Aztec god of rain, in allusion to the high amount of water contained within the crystal structure. It is not to be confused with quetzalcoatlite, which often looks similar in color and habit.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Tlalocite 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.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Tlalocite
Tlalocite was first identified in the Bambollite mine (La Oriental), Moctezuma, Municipio de Moctezuma, Sonora, Mexico and it was approved by the IMA in 1974. It often occurs together with tenorite, azurite, malachite and tlapallite. It is found in partially oxidized portions of tellurium-bearing hydrothermal veins.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Blue
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- Density
- 4.58 g/cm³
- Streak
- Very pale blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Cu10Zn6(Te6+O4)2(Te4+O3)(OH)25Cl · 27H2O
- Elements
- Cl, Cu, H, O, Te, Zn
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Tlalocite FAQs
How do I identify Tlalocite?
Tlalocite can be identified by its hardness of 1 on the Mohs scale, Blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Tlalocite?
Tlalocite typically appears in Blue. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Tlalocite?
Tlalocite has a hardness of 1 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of tlalocite of Tlalocite?
Tlalocite was first identified in the Bambollite mine (La Oriental), Moctezuma, Municipio de Moctezuma, Sonora, Mexico and it was approved by the IMA in 1974. It often occurs together with tenorite, azurite, malachite and tlapallite. It is found in partially oxidized portions of tellurium-bearing hydrothermal veins.
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