Zunyite
A variety of Minerals
What is Zunyite?
Zunyite is a sorosilicate mineral, Al13Si5O20(OH,F)18Cl, composed of aluminium, silicon, hydrogen, chlorine, oxygen, and fluorine.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Zunyite 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.
Zunyite Localities Map
See where Zunyite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Although zunyite was officially discovered as late as 1884, tiny crystals have been located in pots that were placed within excavated graves in the Mayan city of Uaxactun in Guatamala. It is thought that ancient peoples believed zunyite was a worthy offering to the dead as it was rare and from far away. Zunyite is also thought to have been used as a paint in Mayan culture.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Zunyite
Zunyite occurs in highly aluminous shales and hydrothermally altered volcanic rocks. It occurs in association with pyrophyllite, kaolinite, alunite, diaspore, rutile, pyrite, hematite and quartz. It was discovered in 1884, and named for its discovery site, the Zuni mine in the Silverton District, San Juan County, Colorado.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, grey, white, flesh-red
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7
- Density
- 2.88 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Al13Si5O20(OH,F)18Cl
- Elements
- Al, Cl, F, H, O, Si
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Zunyite FAQs
How do I identify Zunyite?
Zunyite can be identified by its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Zunyite?
Zunyite typically appears in Colourless, grey, white, flesh-red. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Zunyite?
Zunyite has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
What is the formation of zunyite of Zunyite?
Zunyite occurs in highly aluminous shales and hydrothermally altered volcanic rocks. It occurs in association with pyrophyllite, kaolinite, alunite, diaspore, rutile, pyrite, hematite and quartz. It was discovered in 1884, and named for its discovery site, the Zuni mine in the Silverton District, San Juan County, Colorado.
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