Wulfenite Xls
OA Dimensions
L 24.5mm x W 19.8mm x H 28.5mm
Origin
Los Lamentos Chihuahua, Mexico
Wulfenite Crystals (Wulfenite Xls)
Wulfenite is a stunning lead molybdate mineral highly prized by collectors for its vibrant color, crystal structure, and unique properties. It is one of the most visually striking minerals, often forming tabular, square-shaped crystals with a brilliant luster. Wulfenite crystals (commonly abbreviated as "Xls" in mineral collecting) are especially sought after in their finest forms.
Collector Importance
Wulfenite is a highly prized mineral in collections due to:
Color Variety: Its vibrant hues make it a standout in display cases.
Crystal Form: Square, tabular crystals are iconic and easy to recognize.
Rarity: Fine-quality specimens are uncommon and carry high value.
Collectors often seek specimens with bright, saturated colors, sharp edges, and minimal damage. Specimens from historically significant mines (e.g., Red Cloud Mine) are particularly valuable.
Key Characteristics of Wulfenite
Chemical Formula: PbMoO₄ (Lead Molybdate)
Crystal System: Tetragonal
Color: Shades of orange, red, yellow, gray, and brown. The most iconic specimens are bright orange or red.
Luster: Resinous to adamantine (brilliant and glassy).
Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
Streak: White
Hardness: 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale (soft and delicate).
Specific Gravity: 6.5–7.0 (very dense due to its lead content).
Cleavage: Poor in one direction.
Crystal Forms
Wulfenite commonly forms thin, square-tabular crystals that can appear almost plate-like. However, depending on the locality and formation conditions, wulfenite can also form:
Pyramidal Crystals: Less common but highly desirable.
Dendritic or Bladed Aggregates: Rare but noteworthy.
The tabular crystals often have sharp edges and a smooth, glass-like surface, which enhances their visual appeal.
Formation and Occurrence
Wulfenite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits. It is usually associated with other secondary minerals like vanadinite, cerussite, mimetite, and pyromorphite.
Notable Localities for Wulfenite Crystals
Red Cloud Mine, Arizona, USA:
Famous for its world-class, deep red wulfenite crystals.
Highly sought after by collectors.
Los Lamentos, Chihuahua, Mexico:
Known for bright orange, thick tabular crystals of wulfenite.
Often associated with a contrasting white matrix.
Mount Peca, Slovenia (formerly in Austria):
The type locality for wulfenite, named after Austrian mineralogist Franz Xavier von Wulfen.
Produces yellow to brown crystals.
Tsumeb Mine, Namibia:
Renowned for its unique orange and yellow wulfenite specimens.
M'Fouati, Republic of Congo:
Produces rare and beautiful wulfenite crystals with vibrant colors.
China:
More recently, China has become a source of highly aesthetic wulfenite specimens.
Care and Preservation
Wulfenite is a soft and brittle mineral, which means it requires careful handling to prevent damage:
Handling: Avoid touching crystals directly. Use gloves or hold specimens by their base or matrix.
Storage: Store in a padded container to prevent chipping or breaking.
Cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals or mechanical cleaning methods. Gentle brushing or rinsing with distilled water is recommended.
Associated Minerals
Wulfenite is often found in association with other colorful secondary minerals, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a specimen. These include:
Vanadinite (red to orange hexagonal crystals)
Cerussite (colorless or white crystals)
Mimetite (yellow to orange prismatic crystals)
Anglesite
Fun Facts About Wulfenite
Named After Franz Xavier von Wulfen:
An Austrian mineralogist who first studied the mineral in the 18th century.
Arizona's State Mineral:
Wulfenite was officially designated as the state mineral of Arizona in 2017.
Photogenic Mineral:
The brilliance, sharpness, and vibrant color of wulfenite make it a favorite subject for mineral photography.
Wulfenite crystals are truly a marvel of the mineral world, combining elegance, rarity, and scientific interest. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, a fine wulfenite specimen is a highlight in any collection!
OA Dimensions
L 24.5mm x W 19.8mm x H 28.5mm
Origin
Los Lamentos Chihuahua, Mexico
Wulfenite Crystals (Wulfenite Xls)
Wulfenite is a stunning lead molybdate mineral highly prized by collectors for its vibrant color, crystal structure, and unique properties. It is one of the most visually striking minerals, often forming tabular, square-shaped crystals with a brilliant luster. Wulfenite crystals (commonly abbreviated as "Xls" in mineral collecting) are especially sought after in their finest forms.
Collector Importance
Wulfenite is a highly prized mineral in collections due to:
Color Variety: Its vibrant hues make it a standout in display cases.
Crystal Form: Square, tabular crystals are iconic and easy to recognize.
Rarity: Fine-quality specimens are uncommon and carry high value.
Collectors often seek specimens with bright, saturated colors, sharp edges, and minimal damage. Specimens from historically significant mines (e.g., Red Cloud Mine) are particularly valuable.
Key Characteristics of Wulfenite
Chemical Formula: PbMoO₄ (Lead Molybdate)
Crystal System: Tetragonal
Color: Shades of orange, red, yellow, gray, and brown. The most iconic specimens are bright orange or red.
Luster: Resinous to adamantine (brilliant and glassy).
Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
Streak: White
Hardness: 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale (soft and delicate).
Specific Gravity: 6.5–7.0 (very dense due to its lead content).
Cleavage: Poor in one direction.
Crystal Forms
Wulfenite commonly forms thin, square-tabular crystals that can appear almost plate-like. However, depending on the locality and formation conditions, wulfenite can also form:
Pyramidal Crystals: Less common but highly desirable.
Dendritic or Bladed Aggregates: Rare but noteworthy.
The tabular crystals often have sharp edges and a smooth, glass-like surface, which enhances their visual appeal.
Formation and Occurrence
Wulfenite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits. It is usually associated with other secondary minerals like vanadinite, cerussite, mimetite, and pyromorphite.
Notable Localities for Wulfenite Crystals
Red Cloud Mine, Arizona, USA:
Famous for its world-class, deep red wulfenite crystals.
Highly sought after by collectors.
Los Lamentos, Chihuahua, Mexico:
Known for bright orange, thick tabular crystals of wulfenite.
Often associated with a contrasting white matrix.
Mount Peca, Slovenia (formerly in Austria):
The type locality for wulfenite, named after Austrian mineralogist Franz Xavier von Wulfen.
Produces yellow to brown crystals.
Tsumeb Mine, Namibia:
Renowned for its unique orange and yellow wulfenite specimens.
M'Fouati, Republic of Congo:
Produces rare and beautiful wulfenite crystals with vibrant colors.
China:
More recently, China has become a source of highly aesthetic wulfenite specimens.
Care and Preservation
Wulfenite is a soft and brittle mineral, which means it requires careful handling to prevent damage:
Handling: Avoid touching crystals directly. Use gloves or hold specimens by their base or matrix.
Storage: Store in a padded container to prevent chipping or breaking.
Cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals or mechanical cleaning methods. Gentle brushing or rinsing with distilled water is recommended.
Associated Minerals
Wulfenite is often found in association with other colorful secondary minerals, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a specimen. These include:
Vanadinite (red to orange hexagonal crystals)
Cerussite (colorless or white crystals)
Mimetite (yellow to orange prismatic crystals)
Anglesite
Fun Facts About Wulfenite
Named After Franz Xavier von Wulfen:
An Austrian mineralogist who first studied the mineral in the 18th century.
Arizona's State Mineral:
Wulfenite was officially designated as the state mineral of Arizona in 2017.
Photogenic Mineral:
The brilliance, sharpness, and vibrant color of wulfenite make it a favorite subject for mineral photography.
Wulfenite crystals are truly a marvel of the mineral world, combining elegance, rarity, and scientific interest. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, a fine wulfenite specimen is a highlight in any collection!
OA Dimensions
L 24.5mm x W 19.8mm x H 28.5mm
Origin
Los Lamentos Chihuahua, Mexico
Wulfenite Crystals (Wulfenite Xls)
Wulfenite is a stunning lead molybdate mineral highly prized by collectors for its vibrant color, crystal structure, and unique properties. It is one of the most visually striking minerals, often forming tabular, square-shaped crystals with a brilliant luster. Wulfenite crystals (commonly abbreviated as "Xls" in mineral collecting) are especially sought after in their finest forms.
Collector Importance
Wulfenite is a highly prized mineral in collections due to:
Color Variety: Its vibrant hues make it a standout in display cases.
Crystal Form: Square, tabular crystals are iconic and easy to recognize.
Rarity: Fine-quality specimens are uncommon and carry high value.
Collectors often seek specimens with bright, saturated colors, sharp edges, and minimal damage. Specimens from historically significant mines (e.g., Red Cloud Mine) are particularly valuable.
Key Characteristics of Wulfenite
Chemical Formula: PbMoO₄ (Lead Molybdate)
Crystal System: Tetragonal
Color: Shades of orange, red, yellow, gray, and brown. The most iconic specimens are bright orange or red.
Luster: Resinous to adamantine (brilliant and glassy).
Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
Streak: White
Hardness: 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale (soft and delicate).
Specific Gravity: 6.5–7.0 (very dense due to its lead content).
Cleavage: Poor in one direction.
Crystal Forms
Wulfenite commonly forms thin, square-tabular crystals that can appear almost plate-like. However, depending on the locality and formation conditions, wulfenite can also form:
Pyramidal Crystals: Less common but highly desirable.
Dendritic or Bladed Aggregates: Rare but noteworthy.
The tabular crystals often have sharp edges and a smooth, glass-like surface, which enhances their visual appeal.
Formation and Occurrence
Wulfenite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits. It is usually associated with other secondary minerals like vanadinite, cerussite, mimetite, and pyromorphite.
Notable Localities for Wulfenite Crystals
Red Cloud Mine, Arizona, USA:
Famous for its world-class, deep red wulfenite crystals.
Highly sought after by collectors.
Los Lamentos, Chihuahua, Mexico:
Known for bright orange, thick tabular crystals of wulfenite.
Often associated with a contrasting white matrix.
Mount Peca, Slovenia (formerly in Austria):
The type locality for wulfenite, named after Austrian mineralogist Franz Xavier von Wulfen.
Produces yellow to brown crystals.
Tsumeb Mine, Namibia:
Renowned for its unique orange and yellow wulfenite specimens.
M'Fouati, Republic of Congo:
Produces rare and beautiful wulfenite crystals with vibrant colors.
China:
More recently, China has become a source of highly aesthetic wulfenite specimens.
Care and Preservation
Wulfenite is a soft and brittle mineral, which means it requires careful handling to prevent damage:
Handling: Avoid touching crystals directly. Use gloves or hold specimens by their base or matrix.
Storage: Store in a padded container to prevent chipping or breaking.
Cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals or mechanical cleaning methods. Gentle brushing or rinsing with distilled water is recommended.
Associated Minerals
Wulfenite is often found in association with other colorful secondary minerals, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a specimen. These include:
Vanadinite (red to orange hexagonal crystals)
Cerussite (colorless or white crystals)
Mimetite (yellow to orange prismatic crystals)
Anglesite
Fun Facts About Wulfenite
Named After Franz Xavier von Wulfen:
An Austrian mineralogist who first studied the mineral in the 18th century.
Arizona's State Mineral:
Wulfenite was officially designated as the state mineral of Arizona in 2017.
Photogenic Mineral:
The brilliance, sharpness, and vibrant color of wulfenite make it a favorite subject for mineral photography.
Wulfenite crystals are truly a marvel of the mineral world, combining elegance, rarity, and scientific interest. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, a fine wulfenite specimen is a highlight in any collection!