Tellurite
A variety of Minerals
What is Tellurite?
Tellurite is a rare oxide mineral composed of tellurium dioxide (TeO2). It occurs as prismatic to acicular transparent yellow to white orthorhombic crystals. It occurs in the oxidation zone of mineral deposits in association with native tellurium, emmonsite and other tellurium minerals. Its name comes from Tellus, which is the Latin name for the planet Earth. It was first described in 1842 because of an occurrence in Faţa Băii, Zlatna, Alba County, Romania.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Tellurite 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.
Tellurite Localities Map
See where Tellurite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White to yellow, bright yellow to orange-yellow; nearly colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Density
- 5.83 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- TeO2
- Elements
- O, Te
Also Known As
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Tellurite FAQs
How do I identify Tellurite?
Tellurite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, White to yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Tellurite?
Tellurite typically appears in White to yellow, bright yellow to orange-yellow; nearly colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Tellurite?
Tellurite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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