Goethita Botrioidal iridiscente
Goethita is a mineral with formula FeO(OH), in the Óxidos group. This specimen comes from Corta Sur, Tharsis, Huelva, Andalucía, España and joined the Terrium collection in 2000.
Description
Well-defined botryoidal structure with iridescent lustre. Compact-columnar, bubbly surface with metallic hues ranging from purples, reds and greens to tarnished gold. Sculptural aggregate with strong visual presence.
History of this specimen
Miguel Ángel collected it before the fencing and before the machines levelled what little remained there.
About Goethita
Goethite is a hydrated iron oxide that forms as an alteration product of iron-rich minerals. In certain slow-oxidation settings it can develop iridescent surfaces, the result of very thin superimposed layers that interfere with light, as in this specimen.
About the locality
The Corta Sur at Tharsis is part of the Iberian Pyrite Belt, one of the largest massive sulphide districts in the world. Intense weathering of these sulphides generates accumulations rich in iron oxides and hydroxides. The iridescent goethites from Tharsis are especially appreciated for their colour range and botryoidal development.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0061
- Composition
- FeO(OH)
- Name
- Goethita
- Variety
- Botrioidal iridiscente
- Group
- Óxidos
- Category
- Meritum Persé
- Mine
- Corta Sur
- District / Municipality
- Tharsis
- Province
- Huelva
- Region
- Andalucía
- Country
- España
- Size (cm)
- 8 x 5 x 3.5
- Weight
- 146.2 g
- Acquired
- 2000
- Ex-collection
- Miguel Ángel
- Etymology
- Named after the German Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, writer and naturalist, in recognition of his interest in mineralogy.
- Quality
- Top
- Value trend
- Al alza
Related specimens
- Abellaíta — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Aerenita — España
- Aerinita (fibrosa) — España
- Analcima — España
- Analcima — España