Sanbornite
A variety of Minerals
What is Sanbornite?
Sanbornite is a rare barium phyllosilicate mineral with formula BaSi2O5. Sanbornite is a colorless to white to pale green, platey orthorhombic mineral with Mohs hardness of 5 and a specific gravity of 3.74. It was first described from Incline, Mariposa County, California in 1932 and named for mineralogist Frank B. Sanborn (1862–1936).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Sanbornite 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.
Sanbornite Localities Map
See where Sanbornite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless to white
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 5
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ba2(Si4O10)
- Elements
- Ba, O, Si
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Sanbornite FAQs
How do I identify Sanbornite?
Sanbornite can be identified by its hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless to white color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Sanbornite?
Sanbornite typically appears in Colourless to white. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Sanbornite?
Sanbornite has a hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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