Smithsonite
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameSmithsonite
Chemical FormulaZnCO₃
Mohs Hardness4
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect rhombohedral {1011}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.35
Colorsblue-green, turquoise
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityKelly Mine, Magdalena District, Socorro County, New Mexico
Mineral GroupCarbonates
Usesminor ore of zinc, collector, jewelry, ornamental stone
Associated Mineralshemimorphite, hydrozincite, cerussite, malachite, azurite, calcite
Rarityuncommon
Description
The image displays a vibrant blue-green botryoidal or mammillary aggregate of smithsonite, characterized by its bubbly, grape-like texture and a somewhat waxy to vitreous luster.
Geological Context
Smithsonite is a secondary mineral formed in the oxidized zones of zinc ore deposits, typically occurring in limestone or dolomitic host rocks where it replaces carbonates.
