mineral

Hemimorphite

Hemimorphite (Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O)

Hardness of 5 on the Mohs scale, typically light blue, white, or green, vitreous to adamantine luster, hemimorphic crystal system (crystals terminate in different faces at opposite ends), perfect cleavage in one direction, and a specific gravity of 3.3 to 3.5.

Identified August 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of zinc and lead ore deposits, typically associated with smithsonite, anglesite, and other supergene minerals.

Uses & applications

Used as an ore of zinc, as a collector's mineral specimen, and occasionally cut into cabochons for distinctive turquoise-blue gemstone jewelry.

Geological facts

Hemimorphite gets its name from the hemimorphic development of its crystals, meaning the two ends of the crystal are physically different, which also gives the mineral pyroelectric and piezoelectric properties.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its characteristic light blue or greenish-blue color, often with a botryoidal, crust-like, or crystalline sparkly texture, and commonly found in regions with historical zinc mining such as Mexico, China, and parts of the United States.