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Anorthoroselite
Henk Smeets – tomeikminerals.com·CC BY 4.0·Wikimedia

Anorthoroselite

Ca2Co(AsO4)2·2H2O
Triclinic IMA renamed

Anorthoroselite is a hydrated calcium cobalt arsenate mineral with the chemical formula Ca2Co(AsO4)2·2H2O. It belongs to the triclinic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as VII/C.12a and in the Dana system as 40.2.2.7. This mineral is typically characterized by its vitreous luster, a hardness of approximately 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, and a relatively low density. It is commonly found in shades of yellow to greenish-yellow. Anorthoroselite is a member of the arsoroselite group, which includes rare hydrated arsenate minerals.

Composition

Composizione (% in peso)
O
As
Ca
Co
  • OOxygen35.3%
  • AsArsenic33.1%
  • CaCalcium17.7%
  • CoCobalt13.0%
  • HHydrogen0.9%

Overview

Anorthoroselite is a hydrated calcium cobalt arsenate mineral with the chemical formula Ca2Co(AsO4)2·2H2O. It belongs to the triclinic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as VII/C.12a and in the Dana system as 40.2.2.7. This mineral is typically characterized by its vitreous luster, a hardness of approximately 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, and a relatively low density. It is commonly found in shades of yellow to greenish-yellow. Anorthoroselite is a member of the arsoroselite group, which includes rare hydrated arsenate minerals.

Etymology

Named after beta.

How to recognize it

Anorthoroselite can be identified by its low hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, which is relatively soft for a mineral of its type. It exhibits a vitreous luster and a yellow to greenish-yellow color. The mineral has a low density, and its streak is typically white or pale yellow. Due to its softness and low density, it is easily distinguished from harder arsenate minerals. It is not commonly confused with other species due to its rarity and distinct chemical composition.

Frequently asked questions

Anorthoroselite is considered a rare mineral, typically found in limited localities, and is not commonly encountered in the mineral collecting trade.