What is creedite?

Creedite is a rare mineral that was first discovered in 1916 in the Magdalena District of Sonora, Mexico. It is typically found in the oxidized zones of lead-zinc deposits and is often associated with other secondary mineral species such as linarite, anglesite, and hemimorphite.

Creedite is a hydrous calcium aluminum sulfate fluoride mineral with the chemical formula Ca3Al2(SO4)(F,OH)10•2H2O. It forms as transparent to translucent, colorless to white, or pale shades of purple, pink, or orange crystals that can be found in various shapes, including elongated prismatic crystals and complex clusters.

Creedite is prized by mineral collectors for its attractive crystal formations and vibrant colors. It has a relatively low hardness of 3-4 on the Mohs scale, making it somewhat fragile and susceptible to breaking or cleaving.

Due to its rarity, creedite is not commonly used for industrial purposes and is primarily valued for its aesthetic qualities. It is often found in mineral collections and museums around the world.