TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Wavellita Turquesa

Wavellita is a mineral with formula Al₃(PO₄)₂(OH,F)₃·5H₂O, in the Fosfatos group. This specimen comes from Palazuelo de las Cuevas, San Vicente de la Cabeza, Zamora, Castilla y León, España and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.

Wavellita Turquesa from Palazuelo de las Cuevas, San Vicente de la Cabeza, Zamora, Castilla y León, España — Terrium

Description

Bluish-green wavellite in small globular and microcrystalline aggregates, concentrated in the small central fissure of the matrix. Very good under a hand lens.

About Wavellita

A hydrated aluminium phosphate that commonly forms radial, spherical or microcrystalline aggregates. In this piece it is notable for the turquoise-like bluish-green colour, uncommon in more typical wavellite.

About the locality

Palazuelo de las Cuevas is a locality noted for fine wavellite specimens from the spoil heaps of former iron mines.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0485
Internal reference
T0094
Composition
Al₃(PO₄)₂(OH,F)₃·5H₂O
Name
Wavellita
Variety
Turquesa
Group
Fosfatos
Mine
Palazuelo de las Cuevas
District / Municipality
San Vicente de la Cabeza
Province
Zamora
Region
Castilla y León
Country
España
Size (cm)
10 x 7 x 4
Acquired
2025
Etymology
Named after the English physician and mineralogist William Wavell (1750-1829). “Turquoise” here functions as a colour descriptor, not as a distinct species.
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

← Back to Terrium catalogue