What is Raspite?
Raspite is a rare lead tungstate, usually yellow to brown, and a collector favourite from oxidised lead-tungsten environments.
Mineralogy and crystal structure
Reference formula: PbWO4. Raspite is monoclinic and is a dimorph of stolzite. Its heavy composition and lead content make locality, analysis and responsible handling especially important. Raspite is classified with tungstates and has a monoclinic crystal system. Typical hardness is 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 7.9–8.2.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include yellow, yellow-brown, brown, greenish yellow. The usual prismatic, tabular, granular habit and adamantine, resinous lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Raspite forms in or is associated with oxidised zones of lead-tungsten veins where primary ore minerals are altered. Important documented localities include Broken Hill in New South Wales, Australia, and a small number of authenticated lead-tungsten localities.
A yellow tungstate with a famous Australian locality
Raspite is a classic locality mineral: its yellow colour and dense lead-tungstate chemistry are inseparable from provenance. A small well-labelled specimen can be highly desirable to systematic collectors.
Collecting and care
Keep enclosed and dry, avoid acids and dust, and do not cut, grind or use lead-bearing material for jewellery or household objects.
