Walfordite
A variety of Minerals
What is Walfordite?
Walfordite is a very rare tellurite mineral that was discovered in Chile in 1999. The mineral is described as orange with orange-yellow streak, and is determined to have a chemical formula of Fe,TeTe3O8 with minor titanium and magnesium substitution resulting in an approximate empirical formula of (Fe,Te,Ti,Mg)(Te)3O8.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Walfordite 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.
Walfordite Localities Map
See where Walfordite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Walfordite
The only reported occurrence is in the Wendy open pit, El Indio-Tambo mining district of the Coquimbo Region, northern Chile where it occurs in oxidized breccia associated with a tellurium-bearing gold deposit. Associated minerals include: alunite, rodalquilarite, native gold, emmonsite, jarosite and pyrite. The mineral was named for mine geologist Phillip Walford (1945— ) who first noted the mineral.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Orange
- Density
- 5.84 g/cm³
- Streak
- Orange-yellow
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- (Fe3+,Te6+)Te4+3O8
- Elements
- Fe, O, Te
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Walfordite FAQs
How do I identify Walfordite?
Walfordite can be identified by its Orange color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Walfordite?
Walfordite typically appears in Orange. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
What is the formation of walfordite of Walfordite?
The only reported occurrence is in the Wendy open pit, El Indio-Tambo mining district of the Coquimbo Region, northern Chile where it occurs in oxidized breccia associated with a tellurium-bearing gold deposit. Associated minerals include: alunite, rodalquilarite, native gold, emmonsite, jarosite and pyrite. The mineral was named for mine geologist Phillip Walford (1945— ) who first noted the mineral.
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