Brushite
A variety of Minerals
What is Brushite?
Brushite is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CaHPO4·2H2O. Crystals of the pure compound belong to the monoclinic space group C2/c and are colorless. It is the phosphate analogue of the arsenate pharmacolite.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Brushite 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.
Brushite Localities Map
See where Brushite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Brushite
Brushite was first described in 1865 for an occurrence on Aves Island, Nueva Esparta, Venezuela, and named for the American mineralogist George Jarvis Brush (1831–1912). It is believed to be a precursor of apatite and is found in guano-rich caves, formed by the interaction of guano with calcite and clay at a low pH. It occurs in phosphorite deposits and forms encrustations on old bones. It may result from runoff of fields which have received heavy fertilizer applications. Associated minerals include tanarakite, ardealite, hydroxylapatite, variscite and gypsum. Brushite is the original precipitating material in calcium phosphate kidney stones. It is also one of the minerals present in dental calculi.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless, light yellow; colorless in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5
- Density
- 2.32 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca(PO3OH) · 2H2O
- Elements
- Ca, H, O, P
Also Known As
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Brushite FAQs
How do I identify Brushite?
Brushite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Colorless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Brushite?
Brushite typically appears in Colorless, light yellow; colorless in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Brushite?
Brushite has a hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of brushite of Brushite?
Brushite was first described in 1865 for an occurrence on Aves Island, Nueva Esparta, Venezuela, and named for the American mineralogist George Jarvis Brush (1831–1912). It is believed to be a precursor of apatite and is found in guano-rich caves, formed by the interaction of guano with calcite and clay at a low pH. It occurs in phosphorite deposits and forms encrustations on old bones. It may result from runoff of fields which have received heavy fertilizer applications. Associated minerals include tanarakite, ardealite, hydroxylapatite, variscite and gypsum. Brushite is the original precipitating material in calcium phosphate kidney stones. It is also one of the minerals present in dental calculi.
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