Geology/History
Erythrite is a secondary cobalt arsenate mineral, recognised for its vivid crimson to deep pink crystals and striking purple-red hues. It typically forms as an oxidation product of primary cobalt and nickel minerals in the weathered zones of hydrothermal cobalt and nickel ore deposits. Erythrite commonly appears as crusts, fibrous coatings or small radiating prismatic crystals. It is often found alongside cobaltite, skutterudite, annabergite and other arsenates.
First described in 1832, Erythrite derives its name from the Greek word erythros, meaning ‘red’, in reference to its brilliant colour. Early miners also referred to it as ‘cobalt bloom’, since its presence served as a reliable indicator of valuable cobalt ores below. Erythrite occurs in notable localities such as the Bou Azzer district in Morocco, the Schneeberg District in Germany, Cornwall in England and several sites in Ontario, Canada. Due to its intense colour and distinctive crystal habit, Erythrite is prized by mineral collectors, though its softness and delicate crystals render it unsuitable for jewellery. Its vivid hue and role as an indicator mineral continue to hold both historical and mineralogical importance.
Metaphysical Properties
Erythrite is regarded as a stone of transformation, vitality and emotional balance. It is said to stimulate the flow of life force energy and to align the heart chakra, encouraging compassion, forgiveness and self-love. Practitioners believe Erythrite fosters the release of suppressed emotions, supporting emotional healing and the dissolution of energetic blockages that hinder growth.
In esoteric traditions, Erythrite is associated with creativity and spiritual insight, thought to inspire fresh ideas and open one’s awareness to higher guidance. It is believed to strengthen the aura by clearing stagnant energies, offering protection from negativity and promoting inner strength. Erythrite is also valued as a stone of renewal, helping one to embrace change and to find courage when faced with transformation.
Crystal Healing
Erythrite is said to support healthy circulation and aid the body in detoxifying heavy emotional states. It is believed to soothe stress and anxiety, calm an overactive mind and nurture emotional balance. Practitioners use Erythrite to revitalise passion, encourage creative flow and align intentions with the heart’s true desires.
Mineralogy
Group: Arsenate
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Chemical Composition: Co₃(AsO₄)₂·8H₂O (Hydrated Cobalt Arsenate)
Form/Habit: Tabular, prismatic or acicular crystals, fibrous crusts or radiating aggregates
Hardness: 1.5 to 2.5
Cleavage: Perfect on {010}
Fracture: Uneven to splintery
Lustre: Pearly to subadamantine on cleavage surfaces, silky in fibrous forms
Streak: Crimson to pale pink
Specific Gravity: 3.06 – 3.50
Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Refractive Indices (R.I.): nα = 1.622, nβ = 1.662, nγ = 1.701
Birefringence: δ = 0.079
Colour: Crimson red, deep pink to purple-red
Pleochroism: Distinct, shows colour variation from deep red to lighter pinkish hues
Fluorescence: None
Strunz Classification: 8.CE.40 (Arsenates with additional anions, with H₂O)
Dana Classification: 40.2.5.2 (Hydrated Cobalt Arsenates)