By Chisom Ibemere
Crocoite is a mineral that is found as crystal with a fascinating history and origin. It was first discovered in the mid-18th century in the Ural Mountains of Russia.
It’s name “crocoite” is derived from the Greek word “krokos,” meaning saffron, due to its vibrant orange-red color. This mineral became highly sought after by collectors and mineral enthusiasts around the world.
Crocoite is primarily found in association with lead ore deposits, specifically with lead chromate minerals.
The major sources of crocoite include Russia, Australia, and Tasmania in Australia being the most significant producer of high-quality crocoite specimens.
Crocoite is basically valued for its aesthetic beauty and is highly sought after by mineral collectors. Due to its scarcity and unique orange-red color, crocoite specimens are considered highly desirable.
In jewelry applications, crocoite is not commonly used due to its relatively low hardness. It has a 2.5 on the Mohs scale and known as lead-containing mineral.
Crocoite is renowned for its stunning color of bright orange to red. It has a glassy luster and translucent to transparent appearance. The mineral has an orthorhombic crystal structure and is composed mainly of lead chromate.
It is relatively soft, brittle, and has a density of around 6.0 to 6.1 g/cm³. Crocoite exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when observed from different angles.
The value of Crocoite is primarily driven by its rarity, aesthetic beauty, and unique color. Collectors and mineral enthusiasts are willing to pay high prices for high-quality crocoite specimens.
The price can vary depending on factors such as crystal size, color intensity, transparency, and overall specimen quality. Crocoite in some location tends to be more valuable due to its exceptional color and crystal habits.
However, it is important to note that crocoite’s value is mostly limited to its use as a collectible mineral rather than for commercial or industrial purposes.