Samuelsonite
A variety of Minerals
What is Samuelsonite?
Samuelsonite is a complex mineral that is found near North Groton, Grafton County, New Hampshire, US. Additionally, it is most commonly found as a secondary mineral in granite pegmatite. Samuelsonite is named after Peter B. Samuelson, a prospector from Rumney, New Hampshire. The mineral has a pale yellow color and has a hardness of 5 on Mohs scale. The crystal is generally yellow, flat, and with straited crystals and blue trolleites. Samuelsonite is monolinic. There are three vectors of unequal length in this crystal system. The three vectors form a rectangular prism with a parallelogram at the base. Therefore, two of the vectors are perpendicular, while the third makes an angle that is not equal to 90°. Samuelsonite has biaxial birefringence (trirefringence), meaning when light passes through the optic axis it is split into two rays due to the difference in refractive index of the ray with parallel polarized light compared to the ray with perpendicular polarized light.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Samuelsonite 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.
Samuelsonite Localities Map
See where Samuelsonite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pale yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Ca,Ba)Ca8Fe2+2Mn2+2Al2(PO4)10(OH)2
- Elements
- Al, Ca, H, Mn, O, P
Identify Samuelsonite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Samuelsonite FAQs
How do I identify Samuelsonite?
Samuelsonite can be identified by its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale, Pale yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Samuelsonite?
Samuelsonite typically appears in Pale yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Samuelsonite?
Samuelsonite has a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
