
mineral
Hemimorphite or Red Quartz
SiO2 (Quartz) / Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O (Hemimorphite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 (Quartz) or 5 (Hemimorphite); Color: Red, orange, white; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Quartz) or Orthorhombic (Hemimorphite); Cleavage: None for quartz, good for hemimorphite; Specific Gravity: 2.65 (Quartz) or 3.4-3.5 (Hemimorphite).
- Hardness
- 7 (Quartz) or 5 (Hemimorphite)
- Color
- Red, orange, white
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Quartz) or 5 (Hemimorphite); Color: Red, orange, white; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Quartz) or Orthorhombic (Hemimorphite); Cleavage: None for quartz, good for hemimorphite; Specific Gravity: 2.65 (Quartz) or 3.4-3.5 (Hemimorphite).
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, or oxidation zones of ore deposits. This specific specimen has been carved and polished into a faceted crystal shape.
Uses & applications
Used in crystal healing, ornamental decorative objects, wire-wrapped jewelry, and mineral collections.
Geological facts
Many commercial crystals are shaped and polished from raw stone to highlight their natural color zoning and inclusions, such as iron oxide staining.
Field identification & locations
Look for conchoidal fracture, vitreous luster, and hardness; commonly sourced from China, Brazil, and Madagascar.