mineral
Botryoidal Smithsonite
Zinc Carbonate (ZnCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 4-4.5 on Mohs scale, typically white, grey, or pastel colors, vitreous to pearly luster, trigonal crystal system with distinctive grape-like botryoidal habit.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Botryoidal Smithsonite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 4-4.5 on Mohs scale, typically white, grey, or pastel colors, vitreous to pearly luster, trigonal crystal system with distinctive grape-like botryoidal habit.
Formation & geological history
Forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of zinc ore deposits, often replacing limestone.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as an ore of zinc and prized by mineral collectors for its unique globular crystal forms.
Geological facts
Named after James Smithson, the founder of the Smithsonian Institution. It frequently exhibits strong fluorescence under UV light.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its botryoidal texture, effervescence in dilute hydrochloric acid, and higher specific gravity than similar quartz formations. Found globally, notably in Mexico, Namibia, and the USA.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous