Magnificent Erythrite Crytals

Erythrite crystallizes in the monoclinic system and forms prismatic crystals. The color is crimson to pink and occurs as a secondary coating known as cobalt bloom on cobalt arsenide minerals. Well-formed crystals are rare, with most of the mineral manifesting in crusts or small reniform aggregates.

Erythrite is a relatively soft mineral, with a hardness of 1 to 2 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to scratching and damage. It is also a fragile mineral, easily breaking apart into small fragments. Despite its delicate nature, erythrite is highly sought after by mineral collectors due to its rarity and aesthetic appeal.

Erythrite occurs as a secondary mineral in the oxide zone of Co–Ni–As bearing mineral deposits. It occurs in association with cobaltite, skutterudite, symplesite, roselite-beta, scorodite, pharmacosiderite, adamite, morenosite, retgersite, and malachite.

Magnificent Erythrite Crytals
Magnificent Erythrite Crytals. From Ightem, Bou Azer District, Tazenakht, Ouarzazate Province, Souss-Massa-Draâ Region, Morocco.
Photo & Collection: Serge Lavarde.



Formula: Co3(AsO4)2·8H2O
System: Monoclinic
Colour: Crimson to peach red, ...
Hardness: 1½ - 2½
Member of: Vivianite Group
Name: Named in 1832 by Francois Sulpice Beaudant From the Greek έρυθρος for red.
Incredible Erythrite from Aghbar Mine, Bou Azzer, Morocco.

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