Mellite
A variety of Minerals
What is Mellite?
Mellite, also called honeystone, is an unusual mineral being also an organic chemical. It is chemically identified as an aluminium salt of mellitic acid, and specifically as aluminium benzene hexacarboxylate hydrate, with the chemical formula Al2C6(COO)6·16H2O. It is a translucent honey-coloured crystal which can be polished and faceted to form striking gemstones. It crystallizes in the tetragonal system and occurs both in good crystals and as formless masses. It is soft with a Mohs hardness of 2 to 2.5 and has a low specific gravity of 1.6. It was discovered originally in 1789 at Artern in Thuringia, Germany. It has subsequently also been found in Russia, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. It was named from the Greek μέλι meli "honey", in allusion to its color. It is found associated with lignite and is assumed to be formed from plant material with aluminium derived from clay.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.509-1.541
- Birefringence
- 0.03
- Pleochroism
- Weak: yellowish brown, yellow
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Mellite 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.
Mellite Localities Map
See where Mellite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Mellite
The crystal structure of mellite has been determined by neutron diffraction and consists of slightly distorted Al(H2O)6 octahedra linked by hydrogen bonds to [C6(COO)6] mellitate anions and water of crystallization.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Honey to wax yellow, brown to reddish, gray, seldom white, colourless to pale yellow in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 1.65 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Al2[C6(COO)6] · 16H2O
- Elements
- Al, C, H, O
Also Known As
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Mellite FAQs
How do I identify Mellite?
Mellite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Honey to wax yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Mellite?
Mellite typically appears in Honey to wax yellow, brown to reddish, gray, seldom white, colourless to pale yellow in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Mellite?
Mellite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the composition of mellite of Mellite?
The crystal structure of mellite has been determined by neutron diffraction and consists of slightly distorted Al(H2O)6 octahedra linked by hydrogen bonds to [C6(COO)6] mellitate anions and water of crystallization.
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