Cacoxenite Crystals
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| Cacoxenite Crystals, From: Benetusser, Valencia, Spain. Photo: Honorio Cocera-La Parra |
It was first described in 1825 for an occurrence in the Hrbek Mine, Bohemia, Czech Republic. It occurs as a secondary phase in oxidized magnetite and limonite deposits. It also occurs in novaculites and in iron and phosphorus rich sediments.
Often times, it forms as fuzzy brownish yellow, brown, yellow, or gold radiated tufts or strands. It may also appear as reddish orange or greenish yellow. The cacoxenite is occasionally referred to cacoxene or cacoxitite.
Beyond its geological significance, cacoxenite holds a special place in metaphysical circles, often called the "Stone of Ascension." It’s believed to enhance spiritual awareness and growth, aligning the physical and spiritual realms. Frequently found as inclusions within quartz or amethyst, it’s said to amplify the properties of these host stones, forming radiant tufts or strands that add a unique aesthetic appeal. Practitioners value it for its supposed ability to open the crown and third eye chakras, fostering creativity, intuition, and a deeper connection to the divine. On the physical side, it’s thought to support cellular renewal, balance hormones, and alleviate stress, with benefits extending to the thyroid, adrenals, and digestive system, though these claims are anecdotal rather than scientifically proven.
Physical Properties:
- Color: Yellow, brown, golden-yellow, orange, or reddish-brown
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
- Crystal Habit: Typically occurs as fibrous, radial, or acicular (needle-like) aggregates; can also be found as earthy masses or coatings
- Luster: Silky to earthy
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Hardness: 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale
- Streak: Yellow to yellowish-brown
- Cleavage: None observed
- Fracture: Uneven
- Density: 2.2 - 2.6 g/cm³
Occurrence:
Environment: Typically found in oxidized zones of iron-rich deposits, often associated with limonite, goethite, and other phosphate minerals like wavellite and turquoise.
Locations: Notable occurrences include the Palermo Mine in New Hampshire (USA), the Hagendorf-Süd Pegmatite in Germany, and the Cornwall region in England.
