About
Boleite has been found in several localities worldwide, however, its only significant source was the the Amelia Mine in Baja California, Mexico. To date, this is the only only locality that had produced this mineral in large, well-formed crystals, as well as the uncommon epitaxial overgrowths.
The matrix of Boleite crystals is often friable and can crumble. Matrix specimens are often stabilized with glue to prevent their crumbling. Boleite is named after its type locality at Boleo, Baja California, Mexico.
Crystal Forms & Aggregates
The crystal class of Boleite is generally classified as isometric; however, possible tetragonal symmetry has been detected in certain studies, leading to inconclusive results in its crystal group classification.
Striking Features
Environment
Varieties
✓ common · ✗ uncommon
- Percylite— Mixture of Boleite and Pseudoboleite, with the outer protruding portions of a cube as Pseudoboleite, and the inner core Boleite.
Uses
Noteworthy Localities
Boleite localities where it forms in microcrystals include the Lavrion District, Attikí Prefecture, Greece; the San Francisco Mine, Caracoles, Antofagasta Region, Chile; Challacollo, El Tamarugal Province, Chile; the Mammoth-Saint Anthony Mine, Tiger, Pinal Co., Arizona; and the Rowley Mine, Theba, Maricopa Co., Arizona.
Common Mineral Associations
Distinguishing Similar Minerals
Photos
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