Hydrozincite
A variety of Minerals
What is Hydrozincite?
Hydrozincite has a propensity in nature to form a mineral layer over other, more desirable minerals and acts as almost a cloaking device. Although it is prized for its high fluorescence, it can easily be mistaken for less alluring minerals like calcite. It is predominately made of water and zinc, making it very brittle.
Uses & Applications
Hydrozincite is a minor source of zinc. Zinc is used for a variety of commercial enterprises including paints, plastics, batteries, soaps, fabrics, electronics, and many other applications. Hydrozincite is popular among collectors due to its fluorescence.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Hydrozincite 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.
Hydrozincite Localities Map
See where Hydrozincite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Hydrozincite
It occurs as an oxidation product of zinc ores and as post mine incrustations. It occurs associated with smithsonite, hemimorphite, willemite, cerussite, aurichalcite, calcite and limonite.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White to grey, stained pale pink, pale yellow, brown
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 3.97 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Pearly, Silky, Dull
- Crystal System
- Monoclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6
- Elements
- C, H, O, Zn
Also Known As
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Hydrozincite FAQs
How do I identify Hydrozincite?
Hydrozincite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, White to grey color, Pearly, Silky, Dull luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Hydrozincite?
Hydrozincite typically appears in White to grey, stained pale pink, pale yellow, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Hydrozincite?
Hydrozincite 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 formation of hydrozincite of Hydrozincite?
It occurs as an oxidation product of zinc ores and as post mine incrustations. It occurs associated with smithsonite, hemimorphite, willemite, cerussite, aurichalcite, calcite and limonite.
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