Irhtemite

irhtemite

sainfeldite

erythrite

picropharmacolite

Images

Formula: Ca4Mg(AsO4)2(AsO3OH)2.4H2O
Hydrated acid arsenate
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Specific gravity: 3.09 measured, 3.153 calculated
Streak: White
Colour: Colourless, white, pale rose, pink
Solubility: Dissolves in 1:10 acids
Environments

Hyrothermal environments

Localities

At the type locality, the Ightem mine, Ightem, Agdz Cercle, Zagora Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco, irhtemite is probably formed from the dehydration of picropharmacolite. It occurs as radial spherules less than 1 mm across, white, or pale pink due to traces of cobalt, and also as aggregates of colourless acicular crystals to 8 mm. Associated minerals include sainfeldite and erythrite (AM 59.209, Minrec 38.5.379)
Ophiolite is the main rock type at the Ightem mine, which hosts 47 different species of minerals (as of May 2023) (Mindat).

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