Beraunite Cacoxenite

Outstanding micromount showing a classic phosphate association dominated by cacoxenite and beraunite, from the well-known locality of Warstein (North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany), a major reference site for secondary iron phosphates.

The cacoxenite forms radiating, fine fibrous to powdery aggregates of vivid yellow to golden-yellow colour, extensively coating the matrix. Under magnification, the densest areas display a characteristic soft, feathery texture, producing bright, highly reflective patches that give the specimen a strong visual impact.

The associated beraunite occurs as numerous brownish-red to deep mahogany-red crystals, developed as thick bladed to prismatic “rod-like” crystals, in places sharply individualised. Several crystals show well-defined flat faces, angular terminations, and a sub-vitreous to resinous lustre, creating a striking contrast against the dominant yellow cacoxenite. The crystal habit is exceptionally readable for a micromount, making this a particularly illustrative beraunite specimen.

In a box 2.8x2.8cm, labelled

FoV : 2.8mm

Ex Legrand 1989