Eosphorite is less dense and is generally pinkish to rose-red in color whereas childrenite's colors tends towards various shades of brown. In terms of crystal habits the two also differ. Eosphorite forms prismatic, slender crystals and rosettes. Childrenite forms tabular or bladed individuals or lamellar aggregates. It has been said that the two different habits belie their solid solution relationship.
Color is varied with colors of pink, salmon-pink, yellow, colorless, red and even brown or black.
Luster is vitreous. Specimens are transparent to translucent. Crystal Habits include prismatic slender crystals and radial aggregate sprays. Crystals are usually altered or partially dissolved. Cleavage is good in two directions at right angles.