Wavellite identification and geology

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• Browse all mineral identification entries — Compare this entry with the complete GeoMiner minerals collection.
• Previous: Vivianite — Hydrated iron phosphate that starts colorless but turns deep blue to blue-black upon exposure to light.
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• Variscite
• Prehnite
• Adamite

Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:37:50.615757+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
• Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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Common questions

What is Wavellite?

Hydrated aluminum phosphate famous for its stunning radial crystal clusters forming circular cross-sections.

How can you identify Wavellite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Green, yellow-green, white; lustre: Vitreous to pearly; streak: White; Mohs hardness: 3.5-4; cleavage: Perfect in three directions; crystal system: Orthorhombic; transparency: Translucent. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Wavellite form?

Forms in low-grade metamorphic rocks and phosphatic sedimentary rocks from aluminum-phosphate-rich fluids.

Where is Wavellite commonly found?

Arkansas USA , Bolivia, England, Ireland; found in slate and chert.

What is Wavellite commonly confused with?

Wavellite may be confused with Variscite, Prehnite, Adamite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.