Spherocobaltite

A variety of Minerals

Spherocobaltite specimen

What is Spherocobaltite?

Spherocobaltite or sphaerocobaltite is a cobalt carbonate mineral with chemical composition CoCO3. In its (rare) pure form, it is typically a rose-red color, but impure specimens can be shades of pink to pale brown. It crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Spherocobaltite 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.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Spherocobaltite Localities Map

See where Spherocobaltite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

More Images

Spherocobaltite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Most commonly dark magenta red; sometimes brownish red, greyish red, or velvet-black (due to surface alteraton)
Hardness (Mohs)
3 - 4
Density
4.21 g/cm³
Streak
Magenta, red, "peach blossom red"

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
CoCO3
Elements
C, Co, O

Also Known As

SpherocobaltiteSphaerocobaltite
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Spherocobaltite FAQs

How do I identify Spherocobaltite?

Spherocobaltite can be identified by its hardness of 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Most commonly dark magenta red; sometimes brownish red color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Spherocobaltite?

Spherocobaltite typically appears in Most commonly dark magenta red; sometimes brownish red, greyish red, or velvet-black (due to surface alteraton). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Spherocobaltite?

Spherocobaltite has a hardness of 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

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