Marthozite

A variety of Minerals

Marthozite specimen

What is Marthozite?

Marthozite is an orthorhombic mineral that has a general formula of Cu(UO2)3(SeO3)3(OH)2·7H2O. It was named after Belgian mineralogist Aimé Marthoz (1894-1962), former Director-general of the Union Minière du Haut Katanga - UMHK. It is usually found in cavities in selenian (selenium-containing) digenite. It is specifically found in the zones of oxidation of the Musonoi deposit in Katanga, Africa. Marthozite is orthorhombic, meaning that it has three axes of unequal lengths all orthogonal to each other. Since it is orthorhombic, marthozite is biaxial, meaning that it has three different indices of refraction. Marthozite is anisotropic, which means that it breaks light into one fast ray and one slow ray. Marthozite shows pleochroism from yellowish brown to greenish yellow.

Market Value Factors

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

Marthozite Localities Map

See where Marthozite 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.

Quick Facts

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Cu2+(UO2)3(SeO3)2O2 · 8H2O
Elements
Cu, H, O, Se, U
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