Veszelyita
Veszelyita is a mineral with formula (Cu,Zn)₃(PO₄)₂·2H₂O, in the Fosfatos (hidratados) group. This specimen comes from Laochang ore field (Laochang Mine), Gejiu City, Honghe, China and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.
Description
Small dark blue crystals on a light matrix, in well-defined cavities. Vitreous lustre and strong contrast.
History of this specimen
Good preservation and outstanding colour for this uncommon species.
About Veszelyita
Veszelyite is a rare mineral formed in the oxidation zone of copper- and zinc-bearing veins, where it occurs as small dark blue crystals or crusts. Its composition includes copper, zinc and phosphorus, and its vitreous lustre, together with its scarcity, make it a valued species. It is easily identified by its intense colour and oxidised setting.
About the locality
The Laochang Mine, in the Gejiu polymetallic district, is known for the production of copper and zinc, as well as cassiterite. In secondary oxidation environments, well-formed veszelyite crystals have been found, accompanied by rare phosphates.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0457
- Internal reference
- T0064
- Composition
- (Cu,Zn)₃(PO₄)₂·2H₂O
- Name
- Veszelyita
- Group
- Fosfatos (hidratados)
- Category
- Cavella
- Mine
- Laochang ore field (Laochang Mine)
- District / Municipality
- Gejiu City
- Province
- Honghe
- Country
- China
- Size (cm)
- 4 x 3 x 2.5
- Weight
- 21 g
- Acquired
- 2025
- Etymology
- It is named in honour of A. Veszelyi, a Hungarian mining engineer who discovered it in 1874 at Ocna de Fier (Romania).
- Quality
- Buena
- Value trend
- Estable
Related specimens
- Autunita — China
- Azurita — China
- Berilo (Aguamarina) — China
- Calcita (Escamosa) — China
- Calcita — China
- Calcita — China
- Cianotriquita — China
- Cuarzo (Ahumado) — China