Adamite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameAdamite
Chemical FormulaZn2(AsO4)(OH)
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagegood on {101}, poor on {010}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.32
Colorsyellow, green, violet, pink, colorless
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityOjuela Mine, Mapimí, Municipio de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico
Mineral GroupArsenates
Usescollector, minor zinc ore
Associated Mineralslimonite, goethite, smithsonite, hemimorphite, mimetite
Rarityuncommon
Description
This image displays a vibrant cluster of yellowish-green adamite crystals, likely prismatic, forming radiating aggregates or a druzy coating on a matrix.
Geological Context
Adamite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zone of zinc-rich arsenic-bearing hydrothermal ore deposits, resulting from the alteration of primary zinc and arsenic minerals.
