Mineral (Biogenic)
Kidney Stone (Medical Specimen)
Calcium oxalate monohydrate (Whewellite) / CaC2O4·H2O
Hardness: 2.5 - 3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Brown, tan, or yellowish; Luster: Earthy to dull; Structure: Crystalline or granular with 'mulberry' spiky surface texture; Cleavage: None.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Brown, tan, or yellowish
- Luster
- Earthy to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 - 3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Brown, tan, or yellowish; Luster: Earthy to dull; Structure: Crystalline or granular with 'mulberry' spiky surface texture; Cleavage: None.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the precipitation of minerals and acid salts out of concentrated urine within the renal system. This specimen appears to be a calcium oxalate 'mulberry' stone.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for medical analysis (pathology) to determine dietary or metabolic causes; sometimes kept as a novelty specimen by the patient.
Geological facts
Kidney stones have been found in Egyptian mummies dating back over 7,000 years. The 'mulberry' shape seen here is characteristic of calcium oxalate monohydrate.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive jagged/spiky exterior and dark brown color. In the 'field' (medical context), it is collected through straining urine after renal colic symptoms.
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