Switzerite
A variety of Minerals
What is Switzerite?
Switzerite is a mineral with the chemical formula of (Mn)3(PO4)2·7H2O. The mineral was named after George Switzer, former Curator of Minerals at the US National Museum.The mineral is monoclinic prismatic, meaning that it has one mirror plane, one 2-fold rotation axis which is perpendicular to the mirror plane and a center of symmetry. Switzerite is a part of the monoclinic space group P 21/a. For its optical properties, Switzerite is classified as anisotropic, has a low surface relief and birefringence of δ = 0.020. Switzerite was first discovered in the 1960s and is a relatively uncommon mineral found in a few localities in Europe, North America, and Australia. This mineral is found in phosphate mines, along with other phosphate minerals. Alone, Switzerite does not have a huge significance due to its rarity and extremely small size. This mineral is found with other phosphate minerals thus, the importance of Switzerite is that it is used, along with the other phosphate minerals, for agricultural purposes. It is unstable and immediately dehydrates into metaswitzerite on exposure to the atmosphere.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Switzerite 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.
Switzerite Localities Map
See where Switzerite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pale pink, pinkish brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Mn2+3(PO4)2 · 7H2O
- Elements
- H, Mn, O, P
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Switzerite FAQs
How do I identify Switzerite?
Switzerite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Pale pink color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Switzerite?
Switzerite typically appears in Pale pink, pinkish brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Switzerite?
Switzerite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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