Springcreekite

Chemical formula: BaV<sup>3+</sup><sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)(PO<sub>3</sub>OH)(OH)<sub>6</sub>

Springcreekite is a very rare barium vanadium phosphate, forming microscopic, green crystals with a hexagonal outline.

## Characteristics Springcreekite is a mineral from the phosphate group, distinguished by its unique chemical composition containing barium and vanadium. It occurs as very small, tabular crystals with a hexagonal or pseudohexagonal outline, usually not exceeding 0.2 mm. These crystals form rosette-like or spherical aggregates, as well as thin coatings and crusts on the host rock. Due to the small size of the crystals, its features are most often observed under a microscope. ## Physical Properties Springcreekite crystals exhibit a vitreous to pearly luster on cleavage surfaces. It is a relatively soft mineral, with a Mohs hardness of approximately 4.5. It is transparent to translucent. The density calculated based on the formula and cell parameters is 3.99 g/cm³. ## Colors and Varieties Springcreekite is characterized by a vivid green color in various shades, from emerald green to yellowish-green. No varieties have been distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral was discovered in the Spring Creek mine, in the Flinders Ranges region of South Australia, and first described in 1986 by a team of mineralogists: I.E. Grey, D.R. Mason, and A.W. Webb. Its name comes directly from its type locality (Spring Creek mine) where it was found.

Properties

Mohs hardness
4.5
Luster
Vitreous to Pearly
Streak
Pale green
Density
3.99
Cleavage
Perfect on {0001}
Fracture
Uneven
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Crystal system
Trigonal

Diagnostic features

## Identification Amateur identification of springcreekite is practically impossible due to its microscopic size and occurrence. Definitive identification requires advanced analytical techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemical analysis (EDS/WDS). In a collection, under a microscope, it can be tentatively identified by its characteristic green color, hexagonal crystal outline, and formation of rosette-like aggregates. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other secondary vanadium minerals and green phosphates, such as minyulite, wardite, or variscite, which may co-occur in similar environments. Final differentiation is only possible through chemical analysis, which will reveal the presence of barium – a key element for springcreekite. ## Crystal Forms It forms small, tabular crystals with a hexagonal or pseudohexagonal habit. These crystals often combine into rosette-like, fan-shaped, or spherical aggregates. It also occurs as thin coatings and crusts.

Geological environment

## Genesis Springcreekite is a secondary mineral formed in the oxidation zones of polymetallic deposits, in this case, vanadiferous ones. Its formation at the type locality is associated with the weathering of vanadium-rich rocks (likely containing roscoelite) in the presence of phosphate and barium-rich solutions. ## Mineral Associations This mineral co-occurs with other rare secondary minerals. At the type locality, it was found in association with quartz, goethite, minyulite, crandallite, wardite, and other rare phosphates and vanadates. ## Localities The only confirmed and described occurrence of springcreekite in the world is its type locality – the Spring Creek mine, in the Flinders Ranges mountain range, South Australia, Australia.

Rarity

Extremely rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria As a "micromount" mineral, its collector value is determined by the quality of the microscopic crystals. The most desirable specimens are those with well-formed, sharp crystals of intense, emerald-green color, forming aesthetic, rosette-like aggregates on a contrasting substrate (matrix). The abundance of the mineral on a given rock fragment is also important. ## Popular Localities The only source of collector specimens is the historic type locality in South Australia. The Spring Creek mine is closed, and material originating from it is extremely difficult to obtain on the market.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Due to its extreme rarity, small crystal size, and delicacy, springcreekite specimens should generally not be cleaned mechanically or chemically. If necessary, dust can be removed very carefully with a soft brush or a photographic air blower. ## What to Avoid Avoid contact with water, acids, detergents, and all chemicals. It should not be subjected to ultrasonic cleaning. Specimens must not be heated or exposed to prolonged strong light. ## Storage Springcreekite specimens should only be stored in specialized collector boxes (so-called micromounts) that protect them from mechanical damage, dust, and humidity changes. Display should be in enclosed showcases, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Sources

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