Veatchite

A variety of Minerals

Veatchite specimen

What is Veatchite?

Veatchite is an unusual strontium borate, with the chemical formula Sr2B11O16(OH)5·H2O. There are two known polytypes, veatchite-A and veatchite-p. Veatchite was discovered in 1938, at the Sterling Borax mine in Tick Canyon, Los Angeles County, California. Veatchite is named to honor John Veatch, the first person to detect boron in the mineral waters of California.

Market Value Factors

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

Veatchite Localities Map

See where Veatchite 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.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Colourless, white
Hardness (Mohs)
2
Density
2.59 g/cm³
Streak
White

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
Sr2B11O16(OH)5 · H2O
Elements
B, H, O, Sr
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Veatchite FAQs

How do I identify Veatchite?

Veatchite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Veatchite?

Veatchite typically appears in Colourless, white. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Veatchite?

Veatchite has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

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