Dawsonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Dawsonite?
Dawsonite is a mineral composed of sodium aluminium carbonate hydroxide, chemical formula NaAlCO3(OH)2. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system. It is not mined for ore. It was discovered in 1874 during the construction of the Redpath Museum in a feldspathic dike on the campus of McGill University on the Island of Montreal, Canada. It is named after geologist Sir John William Dawson (1820–1899). The type material is preserved in the collection of the Redpath Museum.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Dawsonite 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.
Dawsonite Localities Map
See where Dawsonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless to white; rarely pink; colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3
- Density
- 2.431 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NaAlCO3(OH)2
- Elements
- Al, C, H, Na, O
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Dawsonite FAQs
How do I identify Dawsonite?
Dawsonite can be identified by its hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, Colourless to white; rarely pink; colourless in transmitted light color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Dawsonite?
Dawsonite typically appears in Colourless to white; rarely pink; colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Dawsonite?
Dawsonite has a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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