Maghrebite
Maghrebite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the arsenate class, with the chemical formula MgAl₂(AsO₄)₂(OH)₂·8H₂O.
It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system (space group P-1). It is a member of the Laueite structural group.
Key properties: Mohs hardness 2; specific gravity 2.6; Vitreous luster; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Mhb, IMA status: approved, named in 2005.
From weathering Co-arsenides in a hydrothermal Co-Ni-As-(Cu-U-Mo) vein in an arid environment.
It is found associated with Erythrite, talmessite/roselite-β, wendwilsonite, arseniosiderite, pharmacoalumite, cabalzarite.
The word maghreb, derived from the Arabic al-maghrib, meaning ‘‘region where the sun sets’’, originally signified the region between the high ranges of the Atlas Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.