Laurionite

laurionite

paralaurionite

phosgenite

penfieldite

Images

Formula: PbCl(OH)
Hydroxyhalide, matlockite group, paramorph of paralaurionite
Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Specific gravity: 6.241 measured, 6.212 calculated
Hardness: 3 to 3½
Streak: White
Colour: Colourless, white
Solubility: Slightly soluble in cold water, more soluble in warm water, soluble in nitric acid.
Environments

Hydrothermal environments

Laurionite is a secondary mineral produced by the action of saline water on lead-bearing slag, and it also occurs in the oxidised zone of lead-bearing mineral deposits. Associated minerals include paralaurionite, penfieldite, fiedlerite, phosgenite, cerussite and anglesite (HOM, Mindat).

Localities

At the type locality, the Lavrion Mining District, Lavreotiki, East Attica, Attica, Greece, laurionite occurs in ancient lead slags exposed to the action of seawater, associated with phosgenite, paralaurionite, fiedlerite, pyrite and galena (Dana, Mindat).

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