Sampleite
A variety of Minerals
What is Sampleite?
Sampleite has a general formula of NaCaCu5(PO4)4Cl•5(H2O). It was first described in 1942 for an occurrence in Chuquicamata, Chile and was named after Mat Sample, a mine superintendent for the Chile Exploration Company. Sampleite is monoclinic. It belongs to the space group P21/n or P21/c. In a thin section it has a high surface relief and will have sharp boundaries with the surrounding medium. Sampleite is anisotropic and has visible pleochroism and birefringence. It is characteristically found in earthy crusts in a highly sericitized rock and is present in highly oxidized conditions near the surface. When it occurs as micaceous rosettes and aggregates it can be associated with dendrites of manganese and iron oxides. Sampleite appears to be the most recent mineral deposited with the exception of gypsum.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Sampleite 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.
Sampleite Localities Map
See where Sampleite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Light blue, bluish green; blue in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4
- Density
- 3.26 g/cm³
- Streak
- Light blue
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- NaCaCu5(PO4)4Cl · 5H2O
- Elements
- Ca, Cl, Cu, H, Na, O, P
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Sampleite FAQs
How do I identify Sampleite?
Sampleite can be identified by its hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale, Light blue color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Sampleite?
Sampleite typically appears in Light blue, bluish green; blue in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Sampleite?
Sampleite has a hardness of 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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