Melanterite
A variety of Minerals
What is Melanterite?
Melanterite is a mineral form of hydrous iron(II) sulfate: FeSO4·7H2O. It is the iron analogue of the copper sulfate chalcanthite. It alters to siderotil by loss of water. It is a secondary sulfate mineral which forms from the oxidation of primary sulfide minerals such as pyrite and marcasite in the near-surface environment. It often occurs as a post mine encrustation on old underground mine surfaces. It also occurs in coal and lignite seams exposed to humid air and as a rare sublimate phase around volcanic fumaroles. Associated minerals include pisanite, chalcanthite, epsomite, pickeringite, halotrichite and other sulfate minerals. It was first described in 1850.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Melanterite 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.
Melanterite Localities Map
See where Melanterite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless to white or green, also greenish-blue to blue with increased Cu content; colourless to pale green in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Density
- 1.893 g/cm³
- Streak
- White.
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Fe2+(H2O)6SO4 · H2O Six of the water molecules are coordinated with Iron.
- Elements
- Fe, H, O, S
Also Known As
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Melanterite FAQs
How do I identify Melanterite?
Melanterite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Colorless to white or green color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Melanterite?
Melanterite typically appears in Colorless to white or green, also greenish-blue to blue with increased Cu content; colourless to pale green in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Melanterite?
Melanterite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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