Bettertonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Bettertonite?
Bettertonite is a mineral of the arsenate category, named after John Betterton. He was a museum geologist and mineralogist at Haslemere Educational Museum in Surrey, England. Bettertonite is a white arsenate mineral with a formula of [Al6(AsO4)3(OH)9(H2O)5]・11H2O. Bettertonite is in the monoclinic system and has a heteropolyhedral layered structure type. It is a natural forming polyoxometalate. Bettertonite forms in clusters of radiating rectangular laths. Laths are thin and usually < 20 μm laterally. Laths are flat on {010}. Bettertonite is similar to penberthycroftyite and it transforms into penberthycroftyite at low temperatures (67-97 ℃).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Bettertonite 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.
Bettertonite Localities Map
See where Bettertonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Bettertonite
Bettertonite is a white and translucent mineral. It has a vitreous and silky to pearly luster. It has a calculated density of 2.02 g/cm. Bettertonite has perfect cleavage on {010}. Bettertonite’s hardness and fracture were not observed. Bettertonite is nonpleochroic and biaxially positive with α = 1.511 (1), β = 1.517 (1), γ = 1.523 (1).
Formation of Bettertonite
Bettertonite was discovered in St. Hilary, Cornwall, UK, at the Penberthy Croft Mine. The Penberthy Croft Mine is known for the rare secondary CuPbFe arsenates that have been found there. Bettertonite most likely formed as a product of leaching and the replacement of Al to Fe in pharmacosiderite. Bettertonite infills isolated cavities in quartz veins and is associated with arsenopyrite, chamosite, liskeardite, pharmacoalumite, and pharmacosiderite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White
- Density
- 2.02 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- [Al6(AsO4)3(OH)9(H2O)5]·11H2O
- Elements
- Al, As, H, O
Identify Bettertonite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Bettertonite FAQs
How do I identify Bettertonite?
Bettertonite can be identified by its White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Bettertonite?
Bettertonite typically appears in White. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
What is the characteristics of bettertonite of Bettertonite?
Bettertonite is a white and translucent mineral. It has a vitreous and silky to pearly luster. It has a calculated density of 2.02 g/cm. Bettertonite has perfect cleavage on {010}. Bettertonite’s hardness and fracture were not observed. Bettertonite is nonpleochroic and biaxially positive with α = 1.511 (1), β = 1.517 (1), γ = 1.523 (1).
What is the formation of bettertonite of Bettertonite?
Bettertonite was discovered in St. Hilary, Cornwall, UK, at the Penberthy Croft Mine. The Penberthy Croft Mine is known for the rare secondary CuPbFe arsenates that have been found there. Bettertonite most likely formed as a product of leaching and the replacement of Al to Fe in pharmacosiderite. Bettertonite infills isolated cavities in quartz veins and is associated with arsenopyrite, chamosite, liskeardite, pharmacoalumite, and pharmacosiderite.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
