Wavellite

Classic wavellite from the Mauldin Mountain area, Montgomery County, Arkansas, USA. The specimen displays well-developed radial aggregates of wavellite forming distinct spherical to hemispherical sprays on matrix. The crystals show a soft green to pale yellow-green coloration with a silky to vitreous luster, and the radiating crystal habit is sharply defined, giving the specimen a strong aesthetic presence typical of fine Arkansas wavellite.

Wavellite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate that crystallizes in low-temperature, phosphate-rich environments, commonly forming radiating clusters and spherical aggregates. It was first described in 1805 and named after William Wavell, an English physician and mineral collector. Its striking radial habit makes it one of the most easily recognizable phosphate minerals.

Arkansas is one of the world’s classic localities for wavellite, and Mauldin Mountain is particularly well known for producing attractive, well-crystallized specimens. Material from this locality is considered classic reference material for the species, with specimens often showing clean, symmetrical sprays on contrasting matrix, highly prized by collectors of American minerals and phosphates.

The specimen originates from the former collection of C. Strömpl, an amateur mineralogist.