AllMineralsRock
Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite is a popular mineral composed of zinc silicate. [1]
Hemimorphite: Quick Facts and Characteristics
Some quick facts for Hemimorphite:- Transparency: Hemimorphite can be opaque, translucent or transparent.
- Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, hemimorphite is orthorhombic.
- Luster: In terms of luster, hemimorphite can be adamantine, dull, silky, vitreous (glassy) or waxy.
- Streak: Hemimorphite streaks colorless.
- Hardness: Hemimorphite's hardness ranges from 4.5 to 5 on the Moh's scale.
- Specific Gravity: Hemimorphite's specific gravity ranges from 3.4 to 3.5.
Hemimorphite: Background and Summary
Hemimorphite is a zinc silicate mineral that is often found in the oxidation zone of zinc ore deposits. It is a relatively rare mineral that can be identified by its unique crystal habit. Hemimorphite crystals are typically tabular and can display a range of colors including white, blue, green, and yellow. The mineral often occurs in botryoidal or stalactitic forms and can also be found as crusts or coatings on other minerals.Hemimorphite has a number of uses in industry and jewelry making. It is often used as a source of zinc in the production of zinc oxide, which is used in a variety of applications including paint, rubber, and ceramics. The mineral is also used as a gemstone and is sometimes cut and polished into cabochons or beads. Hemimorphite has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable stone.
Hemimorphite: Table of Properties
| Attribute | Hemimorphite (src) |
|---|---|
| Transparency | transparent, translucent, opaque |
| Chemical Formula | Zn4Si2O7(OH)2· H2O |
| Chemical Composition | zinc silicate |
| Specific Gravity | 3.4, 3.5 |
| Hardness | 4.5, 5 |
| Streak | colorless |
| Crystallography | orthorhombic |
| Refractive Index | 1.614, 1.636 |
| Hydrous | Yes |
| Colors | common: blue, brown, yellow sometimes: gray, pale, beige, white, colorless, green |
| Solubility | Soluble in common acids. |
| Category | sorosilicate |
| Birefringence | δ = 0.022 |
| Fracture | 1: 1 |
Hemimorphite: FAQ
Q: Is hemimorphite toxic?A: Hemimorphite is not considered toxic, but it is important to handle the mineral with care as it can be fragile and may break easily.
Q: Where is hemimorphite found?
A: Hemimorphite is found in a number of locations around the world, including the United States, Mexico, China, and Australia.
Q: What is the chemical formula for hemimorphite?
A: The chemical formula for hemimorphite is Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O.
Q: How is hemimorphite formed?
A: Hemimorphite is formed through the oxidation of zinc ore deposits. It often forms in association with other zinc minerals such as smithsonite and sphalerite.
Sources
- "Hemimorphite." Mindat.org. https://www.mindat.org/min-1832.html- "Hemimorphite." Geology.com. https://geology.com/minerals/hemimorphite.shtml
- "Hemimorphite." Gemological Institute of America. https://www.gia.edu/hemimorphite
- Hemimorphite: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemimorphite
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