5.1" Lustrous Hemimorphite Crystal Cluster - Congo

This is a lustrous formation of light blue hemimorphite crystals. This specimen was collected from M'fouati in the Bouenza Department of 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.
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DETAILS
SPECIES
Hemimorphite
LOCATION
M'fouati, Bouenza Department, Republic of the Congo
SIZE
5.1 x 3.3"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#148447