Crocoite
| Colour | Orange, Red |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 2.5–3 |
| Lustre | Adamantine, Sub-Adamantine, Sub-Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy |
| Streak | Yellowish orange |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | Distinct on {110} indistinct on {001} and {100} |
| Fracture | Conchoidal to uneven |
| Chemical formula | Lead Chromate PbCrO 4 |
| Specific gravity | 5.9–6.1 |
What is Crocoite?
Crocoite is a mineral consisting of lead chromate, PbCrO4, and crystallizing in the monoclinic crystal system. It is identical in composition with the artificial product chrome yellow used as a paint pigment.
How to identify Crocoite
- Lustre: Adamantine, Sub-Adamantine, Sub-Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy.
- Hardness: Mohs 2.5–3 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: Yellowish orange.
- Habit: Monoclinic crystal system.
Crocoite in different forms
Stones often confused with Crocoite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Crocoite?
Crocoite is Mohs 2.5–3 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Crocoite?
Crocoite is typically orange, red (Orange, red, yellow; orange-red in transmitted light).