Cafarsite
A variety of Minerals
What is Cafarsite?
Cafarsite (Ca8(Ti,Fe,Fe,Mn)6–7(AsO3)12·4H2O) is a rare calcium iron arsenite mineral. Manganese and titanium occur with iron in the formula. It was first described in 1966 for an occurrence in the Binn Valley, Valais, Switzerland. Its name is from the composition, calcium, ferrum (iron), and arsenic. It has also been reported from Piedmont, Italy and the Hemlo gold mine in the Thunder Bay District, Ontario, Canada.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Cafarsite 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.
Cafarsite Localities Map
See where Cafarsite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5.5 - 6
- Density
- 3.5 g/cm³
- Streak
- Yellow-brown
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca5.9Mn1.7Fe3Ti3(AsO3)12 · 4-5H2O Chemical formula soon to be changed to either Ca16(Na,Fe2+,REE)(Ti,Fe3+,Fe2+,Mn2+,Al)16(AsO3)28F or Ca16(Na,Fe2+,REE)(Ti,Fe3+,Al)12(Fe2+,Mn)4(AsO3)28F. Fluorine is essential.
- Elements
- As, Ca, Fe, H, Mn, O, Ti
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Cafarsite FAQs
How do I identify Cafarsite?
Cafarsite can be identified by its hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale, Dark brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Cafarsite?
Cafarsite typically appears in Dark brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Cafarsite?
Cafarsite has a hardness of 5.5 - 6 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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