COQUIMBITE

HISTORY, LORE, LOCALITIES: Mineralogists recognized coquimbite, pronounced coh-QWIM-bite, as a species in 1841.  Its name is derived from its place of discovery—Coquimba Province, Chile.  It is collected in Chile, Australia, China, Germany, Italy, Peru, Spain, and the United States (Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Utah).

MINERALOGY, PROPERTIES, OCCURRENCE: Coquimbite [hydrous iron sulfate, Fe₂(SO₄)₃·9H₂O] crystallizes in the trigonal system as short prismatic and pyramidal crystals, and also as rosettes, fibrous crystals, and efflorescent growths.  It is transparent to translucent; its pale colors range from white and yellowish to green, blue, violet, and brown.  Coquimbite has a Mohs hardness of 2.0-2.1, poor cleavage, a vitreous luster, and a specific gravity of 2.0.  It is a secondary mineral that forms from the oxidation of iron-sulfide minerals, primarily in regions with arid climates.  It also forms in volcanic fumaroles and as a result of underground-mine fires when heat accelerates the oxidation of iron-sulfide minerals.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES, LORE, USES: According to metaphysical beliefs, coquimbite facilitates contact with spiritual guides during meditation; provides insight into, and new perspectives of, the physical realms; and helps in finding a path forward.  It is a stone for spiritual development that provides protection and peacefulness.  Coquimbite has no technological uses.

COLLECTORS’ INFORMATION: Coquimbite is collected for its unusual crystal forms and especially for the attractive color of its violet variety.  Because coquimbite can deteriorate in humid conditions, specimens should be stored in a dry environment.