Eritrina
Eritrina is a mineral with formula Co₃(AsO₄)₂·8H₂O, in the Arseniatos group. This specimen comes from Distrito de Bou Azzer, Bou Azzer, Ouarzazate, Drâa-Tafilalet, Marruecos and joined the Terrium collection in 2015.
Description
Aggregates of pink erythrite crystals with small quartz crystals on matrix in a fissure vug. Aesthetic in hand and under the loupe.
About Eritrina
Erythrite is a cobalt arsenate readily recognised by its pink to intense magenta colour. It forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidised zones of cobalt-bearing deposits, where it crystallises in radial or prismatic aggregates. It is fragile, with variable lustre, and is highly regarded for its aesthetics. In this piece, two generations are evident: well-defined prismatic crystals and more compact spherulites.
About the locality
The Bou Azzer district, Morocco, is the best-known erythrite locality worldwide. Active since the early 20th century, it continues to yield high-quality specimens. Its geological conditions favour associations with quartz, scorodite and roselite. Specimens with well-defined crystals and saturated colour, like this one, are highly collectable.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0053
- Composition
- Co₃(AsO₄)₂·8H₂O
- Name
- Eritrina
- Group
- Arseniatos
- Category
- Cavella
- Associations
- Cuarzo
- Mine
- Distrito de Bou Azzer
- District / Municipality
- Bou Azzer
- Province
- Ouarzazate
- Region
- Drâa-Tafilalet
- Country
- Marruecos
- Size (cm)
- 5 x 4 x 3
- Weight
- 65.2 g
- Acquired
- 2015
- Etymology
- From the Greek "eruthrós" ('red'), in reference to its characteristic colour.
- Quality
- Buena
- Value trend
- Al alza
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