mineral

Erythrite in Cobaltite Ore

Erythrite (Co3(AsO4)2·8H2O) with Cobaltite (CoAsS)

Hardness: 1.5-2.5 (Erythrite), 5.5 (Cobaltite); Color: Crimson to peach-pink (erythrite) on steel-gray metallic (cobaltite); Luster: Adamantine to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction.

Hardness: 1
Luster: Adamantine to pearly

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral through the oxidation of cobalt-bearing arsenic minerals like cobaltite and skutterudite in hydrothermally altered ore veins.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector's mineral; historically used as a prospecting indicator for cobalt and silver deposits.

Geological facts

Erythrite is known as 'Cobalt Bloom' because its vibrant pink color 'blooms' on the surface of dark cobalt ores when they are exposed to weathering.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the distinct pinkish-purple color against a gray metallic matrix. Commonly found in Morocco, Canada, and Germany. Handle with care due to arsenic content.

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