Whewellite
A variety of Minerals
What is Whewellite?
Whewellite /ˈhjuːəlaɪt/ is a mineral, hydrated calcium oxalate, formula Ca C2O4·H2O. Because of its organic content it is thought to have an indirect biological origin; this hypothesis is supported by its presence in coal and sedimentary nodules. However, it has also been found in hydrothermal deposits where a biological source appears improbable. For this reason, it may be classed as a true mineral. Whewellite, or at least crystalline calcium oxalate, does also arise from biological sources. Small crystals or flakes of it are sometimes found on the surfaces of some cacti, and kidney stones frequently have the same composition. Whewellite was named after William Whewell (1794–1866), an English polymath, naturalist and scientist, professor of moral philosophy at Cambridge and inventor of the system of crystallographic indexing.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Whewellite 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.
Whewellite Localities Map
See where Whewellite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, yellow, brown, colourless, colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 2.22 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ca(C2O4) · H2O
- Elements
- C, Ca, H, O
Also Known As
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Whewellite FAQs
How do I identify Whewellite?
Whewellite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Whewellite?
Whewellite typically appears in White, yellow, brown, colourless, colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Whewellite?
Whewellite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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