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Erythrite

A species of Vivianite Group, Also known as Red Cobalt, Cobalt Crust, Cobalt-Mica, Rhodoial

Erythrite is an old and uncommon mineral whose identification only dates back to 1832. When cobalt-rich ore starts to oxidize, the process can leave behind the beautiful blossoming crystals of erythrite. It is relatively high in arsenic content, so extreme caution is encouraged when handling and processing this mineral.

Hardness:

1.5 - 2.5

Density:

3.135 g/cm³

General Info About Erythrite

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Physical Properties of Erythrite

Luster

Pearly, Dull, Waxy, Sub-vitreous

Diaphaneity

Transparent to translucent

Colors

Crimson to peach red, pale rose, pink

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

Tenacity

Sectile

Cleavage

Perfect

Fracture

Conchoidal, Uneven

Streak

Pale red to pink, paler than the colour

Crystal System

Monoclinic

Hardness

1.5 - 2.5 , Extremely soft

Density

3.135 g/cm³, Normal Weight

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Chemical Properties of Erythrite

Chemical Classification

Arsenates

Formula

Co₃(AsO₄)₂ · 8H₂O

Elements listed

As, Co, H, O

Common Impurities

Ni, Fe, Zn

Health Risk of Erythrite

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What is the hazards of Erythrite?

Harm Type

Heavy Metals

Erythrite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Arsenic, Cobalt.

How to prevent the risks of Erythrite?

Avoid inhaling its dust!

Avoid putting it into mouth!

It's advisable to handle erythrite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing erythrite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store erythrite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.

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Rarity

Rare

Characteristics of Erythrite

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Rock Types of Erythrite

The nickel variety, annabergite, occurs as a light green nickel bloom on nickel arsenides. In addition iron, magnesium and zinc can also substitute for the cobalt position, creating three other minerals: parasymplesite (Fe), hörnesite (Mg) and köttigite (Zn).

Cultural Significance of Erythrite

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Uses of Erythrite

Erythrite is a minor ore of cobalt, which is an essential metal used in laptops, batteries, magnets, hip replacements, jet engines, and more. The striking and unusual colors also make erythrite a valued collector's mineral.

Distribution of Erythrite

Notable localities are Cobalt, Ontario; La Cobaltera, Chile, Schneeberg, Saxony, Germany; Joachimsthal, Czech Republic; Cornwall, England; Bou Azzer, Morocco; the Blackbird mine, Lemhi County, Idaho; Sara Alicia mine, near Alamos, Sonora, Mexico; Mt. Cobalt, Queensland and the Dome Rock copper mine, Mingary, South Australia.

Mineralogy and Petrology of Erythrite

Erythrite occurs as a secondary mineral in the oxide zone of Co–Ni–As bearing mineral deposits. It occurs in association with cobaltite, skutterudite, symplesite, roselite-beta, scorodite, pharmacosiderite, adamite, morenosite, retgersite, and malachite.

Etymology of Erythrite

Erythrite was first described in 1832 for an occurrence in Grube Daniel, Schneeberg, Saxony, and takes its name from the Greek έρυθρος (erythros), meaning red.

Healing Properties of Erythrite

Erythrite is a positive energy stone that works on the Heart, Throat, and Root chakras. It can help a person on their journey to self-awareness, allowing for self-acceptance and spiritual growth. The stone's positive energy on the heart is believed to influence one's relationships and allow for better understanding of others. Communication may be improved when using this stone as it opens the Throat chakra for better clarity when speaking.

Chakras

Root, Heart, Throat