Crimsonite
Crimsonite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the phosphate class, with the chemical formula PbFe³⁺₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂.
It crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system (space group Cccm). It is a member of the Carminite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 3.5; specific gravity 5.18; Light purplish orange streak; Adamantine luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Cms, IMA status: approved, named in 2014.
A low-temperature, secondary, oxidation-zone mineral.
It is found associated with Fluorwavellite, goethite, hematite, hentschelite, plumbogummite, variscite, quartz.
Alludes to the mineral’s deep red (crimson) color and the fact that it is the phosphate analogue of carminite.
Index entry. This entry combines official IMA/RRUFF species data with published physical-property data — a full written entry hasn’t been published yet.
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