Berzeliite (Size: 70 mm x 60 mm x 30 mm; field of view 14 mm) Locality: Långban, Filipstad, Värmland, Sweden Yellow berzeliite in calcite — Photo: Jyrki Autio · Public domain
Berzeliite
Berzeliite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the arsenate class, with the chemical formula (NaCa₂)Mg₂(AsO₄)₃.
It crystallizes in the cubic crystal system (space group Ia3d). It is a member of the Garnet structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 4.5–5; specific gravity 4.08; Nearly white to yellow-orange streak; Resinous luster.
IMA symbol Bze, grandfathered status — known before the IMA’s founding, named in 1840.
Found in metamorphosed Fe–Mn orebodies.
It is found associated with Hausmannite, rhodonite, tephroite, hedyphane, caryinite, manganoan biotite, långbanite, braunite, hematite, dolomite, barite, calcite.
In honor of the noted Swedish chemist and mineralogist, Jöns Jacob Berzelius (1779–1848).