Legrandite

A variety of Minerals

Rare
Legrandite specimen

What is Legrandite?

Legrandite is an extremely rare mineral prized by collectors for its yellow or yellow-orange color. Although exceptionally beautiful, this mineral doesn't find its use in jewelry because of its fragility. The smaller specimens are transparent, but the bigger the crystal the more opaque it gets.

Etymology & Origins

It was first described in 1934 for an occurrence in the Flor de Peña Mine, Nuevo León, Mexico and named after M. Legrand, a Belgian mining engineer .

Optical Properties

Refractive Index
1.702-1.740
Birefringence
0.06
Pleochroism
Yellow to colourless
Optical Character
Biaxial positive

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Legrandite 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.

Legrandite Localities Map

See where Legrandite 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.

Health & Safety Information

  • ⚠️Legrandite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Arsenic, Zinc.
  • ⚠️Arsenic
  • ⚠️It's advisable to handle legrandite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing legrandite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store legrandite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Yellow to colourless, pale yellow to colourless in transmitted light
Hardness (Mohs)
4.5
Density
4.015 g/cm³
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous
Crystal System
Monoclinic

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Zn2(AsO4)(OH) · H2O
Elements
As, H, O, Zn
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Legrandite FAQs

How do I identify Legrandite?

Legrandite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Yellow to colourless color, Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Legrandite?

Legrandite typically appears in Yellow to colourless, pale yellow to colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Legrandite?

Legrandite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

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