Crocoite

Real mineral · rare · PbCrO₄

Lead chromate forming brilliant orange prismatic crystals in the oxidised zones of lead deposits where chromium-bearing rocks are present. The finest specimens come from Dundas, Tasmania. Soft and fragile despite its spectacular appearance.

Identity

Formula

PbCrO₄

Chemical class

chromate

Also known as

Red lead ore

Crystallography

Crystal system

monoclinic

Habits

prismatic, acicular, massive

Fracture

conchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

2.5

Density

6 g/cm³

Luster

adamantine, vitreous

Colors

orange-red, red, orange, yellow

Streak

orange-yellow

Transparency

transparent, translucent

Geology

Origins

sedimentary

Host rocks

lead ore deposits (oxidized zones)

Associated minerals

Cerussite, Vanadinite, Wulfenite, Galena

Geography

Australia (Tasmania), Russia (Ural Mountains), Brazil, Philippines

Classification

Rarity

rare

Gem quality

Yes

Arcane properties

Affinity

fire, earth

Effects

elemental fire

Planar origin

Material Plane

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