General Information:
Chemical Formula:
(Al,Fe+++)14(PO4)11(SO4)(OH)7·84(H2O)
Composition:
(Molecular Weight = 3,208.56 gm)
Aluminum 10.09 % Al
Iron 3.48 % Fe
Phosphorus 10.62 % P
Hydrogen 5.50 % H
Sulfur 1.00 % S
Oxygen 69.31 % O
Empirical Formula:
Al12Fe3+2(PO4)11(SO4)(OH)7·84(H2O)
IMA Status:
Approved IMA 1978
Locality:
West Dreifontein cave, near Carlstonville, Transvaal, South Africa.
Name Origin:
Named for the South African Speleological Society (SAS).
Physical Properties:
Cleavage:
[001] Perfect
Color:
white.
Density:
1.75
Habits:
Earthy - Dull, clay-like texture with no visible crystalline affinities, (e.g. howlite)., Nodular - Tuberose forms having irregular protuberances over the surface.,
Hardness:
2-3 - Gypsum-Calcite
Streak:
white
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