Zaratite
A variety of Minerals
What is Zaratite?
Zaratite is a bright emerald green nickel carbonate mineral with formula Ni3CO3(OH)4·4H2O. Zaratite crystallizes in the isometric crystal system as massive to mammillary encrustations and vein fillings. It has a specific gravity of 2.6 and a Mohs hardness of 3 to 3.5. It has no cleavage and is brittle to conchoidal fracture. The luster is vitreous to greasy. It is a rare secondary mineral formed by hydration or alteration of the primary nickel and iron bearing minerals, chromite, pentlandite, pyrrhotite, and millerite, during the serpentinization of ultramafic rocks. Hellyerite, NiCO3·6H2O, is a related mineral. It was found originally in Galicia, Spain in 1851, and named after Spanish diplomat and dramatist Antonio Gil y Zárate (1793–1861).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Zaratite 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.
Zaratite Localities Map
See where Zaratite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Emerald-green; green in transmitted light.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3.5
- Density
- 2.67 g/cm³
- Streak
- Light green
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ni3(CO3)(OH)4 · 4H2O ?
- Elements
- C, H, Ni, O
Also Known As
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Zaratite FAQs
How do I identify Zaratite?
Zaratite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Emerald-green; green in transmitted light. color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Zaratite?
Zaratite typically appears in Emerald-green; green in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Zaratite?
Zaratite has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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