Powellite incl. Quartz Crystal

Powellite incl. Quartz Crystal Powellite is a rare calcium molybdate mineral with the chemical formula CaMoO4. It is known for its tetragonal crystal structure and typically appears in transparent, adamantine, and anhedral forms with colors ranging from blue, greenish-brown, yellow, and grey. It’s closely related to scheelite and forms a series with it, often as an alteration product of molybdenite. Key Characteristics: Chemical Formula: CaMoO4. Crystal System: Tetragonal. Color: White, beige, light yellow, light brown, orange, light blue, green, and can be colorless or even black (which appears deep blue in transmitted light). Luster: Adamantine. Cleavage: Distinct. Fracture: Brittle, often exhibiting a conchoidal fracture. Hardness: 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale. Transparency: Transparent to translucent. Fluorescence: Strong yellow fluorescence under shortwave UV light, according to the Mineral and Gemstone Kingdom and the National Gem Lab. Rarity: Uncommon as a mineral, but rare as a gemstone, according to Gem Rock Auctions. Habit: Often forms pyramidal crystals, sometimes with striated faces, and can be aggregated into crusts, pulverulent masses, or massive forms. Locality: Powellite is found in various locations worldwide, including the Peacock Mine in Idaho, USA, and in India, particularly in the Jalgaon and Nasik districts. Powellite is named after American geologist John Wesley Powell, who was a director for the United States Geological Survey, says Mindat.org and the Mineralogy Database