Mendipite
A variety of Minerals
What is Mendipite?
Mendipite is a rare mineral that was named in 1939 for the locality where it is found, the Mendip Hills in Somerset, England. It is an oxyhalide of lead with formula Pb3Cl2O2.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Mendipite 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.
Mendipite Localities Map
See where Mendipite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Mendipite
Mendipite is found in columnar or fibrous aggregates, often radiated but more rarely straight long fibers, and in cleavable masses. The cleavage is perfect on {110} and fair on {100} and {010}. Fracture is conchoidal (shell-like) to uneven and the mineral is soft, with hardness only 2 ⁄2 to 3, a bit less than that of calcite. Because of the lead content the specific gravity is high, at 7.24, or 7 to 7.2, just a little less than that of mimetite, another lead mineral. Mendipite is soluble in dilute nitric acid, HNO3. It is not radioactive.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, white, grey, often tinged yellow, blue, red; nearly colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 7.22 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Pb3Cl2O2
- Elements
- Cl, O, Pb
Also Known As
Identify Mendipite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Mendipite FAQs
How do I identify Mendipite?
Mendipite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Mendipite?
Mendipite typically appears in Colourless, white, grey, often tinged yellow, blue, red; nearly colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Mendipite?
Mendipite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the characteristics of mendipite of Mendipite?
Mendipite is found in columnar or fibrous aggregates, often radiated but more rarely straight long fibers, and in cleavable masses. The cleavage is perfect on {110} and fair on {100} and {010}. Fracture is conchoidal (shell-like) to uneven and the mineral is soft, with hardness only 2 ⁄2 to 3, a bit less than that of calcite. Because of the lead content the specific gravity is high, at 7.24, or 7 to 7.2, just a little less than that of mimetite, another lead mineral. Mendipite is soluble in dilute nitric acid, HNO3. It is not radioactive.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
