Althausite

A variety of Minerals

Althausite specimen

What is Althausite?

Althausite is a relatively simple magnesium phosphate mineral with formula Mg2(PO4)(OH,F). It is very rare. Original occurrences are magnesite deposits among serpentinites. It is named after Egon Althaus (born 1933), a mineralogist at the University of Karlsruhe, Germany.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Althausite before comparing listings or appraisals.

Size & Weight

Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.

Rarity & Demand

Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.

Condition & Finish

Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.

Treatment & Provenance

Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Althausite Localities Map

See where Althausite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Pale gray, reddish brown; dark blue, green, black
Hardness (Mohs)
3.5 - 4
Density
2.91 g/cm³

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Mg4(PO4)2(OH,O)(F,☐)
Elements
F, H, Mg, O, P
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Althausite FAQs

How do I identify Althausite?

Althausite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Pale gray color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Althausite?

Althausite typically appears in Pale gray, reddish brown; dark blue, green, black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Althausite?

Althausite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

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