Crocoite
Crocoite is a chromate mineral recognized among collectors for its crystal form and distribution, with known Chinese sources.
About Crocoite
Crocoite is classified as a chromate mineral in the monazite group (structural analogue) and has the chemical formula PbCrO4. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system and is relatively soft, requiring careful handling. Its combination of structural character and global distribution make it a recognized species in both systematic and aesthetic collections.
Identification & care
Crocoite typically forms prismatic elongated crystals, striated; often hollow; drusy crusts; acicular. Its color is typically bright orange-red to orange-yellow. The luster is adamantine, vitreous, the streak is orange-yellow, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is distinct on {110}, imperfect on {001}. The fracture is conchoidal, uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
How it forms
In terms of geology, Crocoite forms in secondary mineral in oxidized zone of lead ore deposits that have been enriched in chromium; rare because both lead and chromium must be present simultaneously in the oxidized zone. It is commonly found in association with cerussite, wulfenite, mimetite, pyromorphite, galena, limonite, vauquelinite.
Classic Chinese localities
Crocoite has known Chinese occurrences in Gansu.
Why collectors care
Collectors pursue Crocoite for the clarity of its crystal form and, in good material, saturated color that reads instantly across a display case. A well-terminated crocoite on clean matrix photographs well, identifies quickly, and anchors a cabinet piece. Top Chinese specimens over the last two decades have reset the bar for what crocoite looks like at collector grade.
What affects value
Value in Crocoite is assessed, in typical order of weight, against: (1) locality provenance; (2) size relative to the species norm; (3) crystal form and termination sharpness; (4) color saturation and zoning; (5) transparency and internal clarity; (6) matrix quality and aesthetic balance; (7) condition (absence of damage, chips, or repair). Cleaning quality and verified locality documentation act as multipliers across the above.
Naming history
The name Crocoite has a specific etymological and historical context — see Mindat's reference entry for provenance details. We have retained naming data at the record level; published prose is paraphrased from factual fields rather than copied from source.