Gaspeite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameGaspeite
Chemical Formula(Ni,Mg,Fe)CO₃
Mohs Hardness4.5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lusterdull
Streak Colorpale green to yellowish-green
Cleavageperfect on {1011}, rarely observed
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity3.75
Colorsyellowish-green, apple-green, pale green, brownish-green
Transparencytranslucent
Type Locality132 North Mine, Widgiemooltha, Western Australia, Australia
Mineral Groupcarbonates
Usescollector, gemstone
Associated Mineralsannabergite, goethite, magnesite, talc
Rarityrare
Description
This specimen of Gaspeite displays a characteristic yellowish-green color, forming a botryoidal or mammillary crust. It is a nickel, magnesium, iron carbonate.
Geological Context
Gaspeite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of nickel sulfide deposits. It often occurs as an alteration product of other nickel-bearing minerals.
