1.7" Sparkling Hemimorphite on Fibrous Blue Aurichalcite - Congo
This is an aggregation of bright blue fibrous (acicular) aurichalcite crystals that formed in association with hemimorphite crystals, collected from the Republic of the Congo.
Hemimorphite is a basic hydrous zinc silicate with the chemical composition Zn4Si2O7(OH)2 · H2O. It earned its name from the Greek terms that best define its crystal structure. It has two different terminations on each side of the crystal, hence the inclusion of the greek terms "hemi", meaning half, and "morph", meaning shape. The crystal formations can range anywhere between a crystal druze or botryoidal formation to radiating acicular crystals and more. Hemimorphite has been found in shades of white, beige, light brown, and a bright, electric blue. It can also form as yellow and green crystals on rare occasions.
Prior to 1803, hemimorphite and smithsonite were thought to be the same mineral, called "calamine". However, further scientific research concluded that these were two distinct minerals.
Prior to 1803, hemimorphite and smithsonite were thought to be the same mineral, called "calamine". However, further scientific research concluded that these were two distinct minerals.
Aurichalcite (chemical formula (Zn,Cu)5(CO3)2(OH)6) is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper and zinc ore deposits. It often forms as radiating, fuzzy-looking acicular blue-green crystals and linings along cavity walls.
$29
SPECIES
Hemimorphite & Aurichalcite
LOCATION
Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville)
SIZE
1.7 x 1.2"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#312450