227-257 Phosphates, Arsenates and Vandates

The dominant building block of this mineral class is the phosphate ion (PO4). Arsenic and vanadium also form minerals of similar form to the phosphates.

The typical mineral has a glass-like to dull lustre, is often strongly-coloured, above average in density, and has an average hardness. The minerals of this class can have very complex chemical relationships and structures. It is a large mineral class, but many members are rare.

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