Hemimorphite

Real mineral · uncommon · Zn₄Si₂O₇(OH)₂•(H₂O)

A zinc silicate of oxidised zinc deposits, named for crystals whose two ends differ: one terminates in a point, the other in a flat face. Its blue botryoidal crusts are cut as cabochons.

Identity

Formula

Zn₄Si₂O₇(OH)₂•(H₂O)

Chemical class

silicate

Also known as

Calamine

Crystallography

Crystal system

orthorhombic

Habits

botryoidal, tabular, drusy, fibrous

Fracture

conchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

5

Density

3.45 g/cm³

Luster

vitreous

Colors

brown, colorless, greenish gray, yellow brown, white

Streak

white

Transparency

transparent, translucent

Geology

Origins

hydrothermal, sedimentary

Host rocks

oxidised zinc ore, limestone

Associated minerals

Smithsonite, Sphalerite, Calcite, Galena

Geography

Mexico, China, Namibia

Classification

Rarity

uncommon

Gem quality

Yes

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