Creedite, a rare and attractive mineral, is found in various locations across the globe, primarily in regions known for their mineral deposits. Notable occurrences include several sites within the United States, as well as countries like Bolivia, China, and Kazakhstan.
Primary Locations for Creedite Deposits
Creedite typically forms as secondary minerals in oxidized hydrothermal deposits. Its presence often indicates a unique geological environment. Here's a detailed look at its documented locations:
North America
The United States boasts several significant Creedite localities, offering diverse geological contexts for its formation.
- California:
- Darwin, California, is one known site where Creedite can be found.
- Colorado:
- Creede, Colorado: This namesake location is particularly significant. Creedite here often occurs in cavities within rock formations, frequently associated with other minerals such as fluorite and barite.
- Wagon Wheel Gap, Colorado: Another important site, particularly noted for its presence in fluorite-barite mines.
- Nevada:
- Granite, Nevada, also contributes to the known locations for Creedite in the U.S.
South America
- Bolivia:
- Colquiri, Bolivia, is a recognized locale for Creedite, adding to its global distribution.
Asia
Creedite also appears in various parts of Asia, sometimes exhibiting distinct color variations.
- China:
- Deposits in China are known to yield colorless varieties of Creedite.
- Kazakhstan:
- Kazakhstan is notable for its production of purple Creedite, a sought-after color variation of the mineral.
Summary of Creedite Locations
To provide a clear overview, here's a table summarizing the key locations where Creedite is found, along with any specific characteristics mentioned:
Country | Location/Region | Characteristics/Associations |
---|---|---|
United States | Darwin, California | |
Creede, Colorado | Found in rock cavities; associated with fluorite and barite | |
Wagon Wheel Gap, Colorado | Found in fluorite-barite mines | |
Granite, Nevada | ||
Bolivia | Colquiri | |
China | (Various locations) | Known for colorless Creedite |
Kazakhstan | (Various locations) | Known for purple Creedite |
These locations highlight the global presence of Creedite, making it a mineral of interest for collectors and geologists alike due to its rarity and often striking appearance. For more detailed information on this and other gemstones, exploring resources like the Gemological Institute of America can be beneficial.