What is Väyrynenite?
Väyrynenite is a rare manganese beryllium phosphate, valued as a pink collector gemstone and for sharp crystals from specialised granitic pegmatites.
Mineralogy and structure
Reference formula: (Mn,Fe)Be(PO4)(OH,F). Väyrynenite is monoclinic and forms a manganese-iron series with hydroxyl-fluorine substitution. COD 9004608 is an exact representative natural structure; beryllium-bearing material requires careful handling. Väyrynenite is classified with phosphates and has monoclinic crystal symmetry. Typical hardness is 3.5–4.5 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 3.1–3.3.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include pink, rose, peach, colourless, brownish. The usual prismatic, granular, massive habit and vitreous, pearly lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Väyrynenite forms in or is associated with beryllium- and phosphate-rich granite pegmatites and late-stage cavities. Important documented localities include Finland, Pakistan, Myanmar, Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar and Afghanistan.
Rose colour from a rare-element pegmatite
Väyrynenite is a collector gemstone where saturated pink colour, small crystal form and unusual beryllium chemistry meet. Provenance and careful lapidary practice are essential.
Collecting and care
Do not cut, grind or generate dust. Protect small crystals from impact and retain locality and analytical information.
