Hectorfloresite is a rare sodium iodate sulfate that typically forms in arid evaporite environments. It is most recognized for its occurrence at the Hector Mine in California, where it is found as thin, tabular crystals or fine-grained masses associated with other secondary minerals.
Is this hectorfloresite?
5-step field checkRun through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.
- 1Test the hardnessTry to scratch hectorfloresite with a known reference. Hectorfloresite sits at Mohs 3, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
- 2Check the streakDrag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Hectorfloresite leaves a white streak.
- 3Read the lusterHold the specimen under a strong light. Hectorfloresite typically shows a adamantine luster.
- 4Match the color rangeCompare against the expected color range: white, colorless.
- 5Look at form & habitCrystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: tabular crystals, massive, granular.
Often found alongside hectorfloresite
Minerals reported to co-occur with hectorfloresite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.
All properties
- Chemical formula
- Na₉(IO₃)(SO₄)₄
- Mohs hardness
- 3
- Density
- 2.8 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Adamantine
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Monoclinic
- Crystal habit
- Tabular Crystals, Massive, Granular
- Cleavage
- Perfect
- Rarity
- Rare
- Uses
- Collector
- Host rock
- Evaporite Deposits in Arid Desert Environments
Where rockhounds find hectorfloresite
Classic worldwide localities
- Alianza nitrate mine, Oficina Victoria, Tarapaca, Chile
Field-hunting tip
Look in evaporite deposits in arid desert environments country, the host setting where hectorfloresite typically forms. If you start seeing jarosite, gypsum, halite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.
Common questions
How do you identify hectorfloresite?+
Where is hectorfloresite found?+
What minerals are found with hectorfloresite?+
What kind of rock does hectorfloresite form in?+
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Find hectorfloresite on the map
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