Whiteite

This is a fairly rare phosphate mineral that forms from hydrothermal precipitation and hydrothermal alteration of phosphate rich pegmatites. Known for its association with Lazulite at the well known Rapid Creek locality. Indeed, this specimen has a few bits of lazulite on the back. I am particularly fond of this species as my appreciation for Mr John White (ex curator and publisher) is profound (and if you have not figured it out, this species is named after him). Ex Martin Zinn thumbnail collection, originally purchased in 1992.

Locality: Rapid Creek, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territories Canada

Composition: Hydrated Calcium Iron Manganese Magnesium Aluminum Phosphate Hydroxide.