Wavellite: Gemstones Information

Wavellite is Al3(PO4)2(OH,F)35H2 and forms very small crystals and larger characteristic radial aggregates of the orthorhombic system with a perfect cleavage in one direction, hardness 3.5–4 and SG 2.36.The masses are translucent white to greenish white, yellowish green to green to brown or black. The RI for the alpha, beta and gamma rays is 1.518–1.535, 1.524–1.543 and 1.544–1561, biaxial positive with birefringence 0.025. Wavellite occurs as a secondary mineral in low-grade metamorphic rocks and phosphate deposits.