Goslarite
A variety of Minerals
What is Goslarite?
Goslarite is a hydrated zinc sulfate mineral (ZnSO4 • 7H2O) which was first found in the Rammelsberg mine, Goslar, Harz, Germany. It was described in 1847. Goslarite belongs to the epsomite group which also includes epsomite (MgSO4 • 7H2O) and morenosite (NiSO4 • 7H2O). Goslarite is an unstable mineral at the surface and will dehydrate to other minerals like bianchite (ZnSO4 • 6H2O), boyleite (ZnSO4 • 4H2O) and gunningite (ZnSO4 • H2O).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Goslarite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Goslarite Localities Map
See where Goslarite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Goslarite
The composition of goslarite was determined by the US National Bureau of Standards (now the National Institute of Standards and Technology) in 1959 as follows: SO3 27.84 wt%, ZnO 28.30 wt% and H2O 43.86 wt%. Goslarite's cleavage is perfect in {010}, as for epsomite and morenosite. The color of goslarite ranges from brownish to pinkish, blue, brown, colorless, green and green blue. The luster ranges from vitreous to nacreous and silky (if fibrous). Goslarite is soluble in water, has an astringent taste, and is strongly diamagnetic.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless; light brown, green or blue; white; colourless in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 1.94 g/cm³
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- ZnSO4 · 7H2O
- Elements
- H, O, S, Zn
Also Known As
Identify Goslarite Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Goslarite FAQs
How do I identify Goslarite?
Goslarite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless; light brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Goslarite?
Goslarite typically appears in Colourless; light brown, green or blue; white; colourless in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Goslarite?
Goslarite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the characteristics of goslarite of Goslarite?
The composition of goslarite was determined by the US National Bureau of Standards (now the National Institute of Standards and Technology) in 1959 as follows: SO3 27.84 wt%, ZnO 28.30 wt% and H2O 43.86 wt%. Goslarite's cleavage is perfect in {010}, as for epsomite and morenosite. The color of goslarite ranges from brownish to pinkish, blue, brown, colorless, green and green blue. The luster ranges from vitreous to nacreous and silky (if fibrous). Goslarite is soluble in water, has an astringent taste, and is strongly diamagnetic.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
