Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.
About Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite belongs to the silicate class in the hemimorphite group and has the chemical formula Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Crystals commonly develop as tabular, prismatic, hemimorphic (different crystal faces on each end — diagnostic!); botryoidal, stalactitic masses. Its color range is broad, including white, colorless, pale blue, pale green, and pale yellow. The luster is vitreous to resinous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is perfect {110}. The fracture is conchoidal to uneven, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Hemimorphite is a recognized reference. Hemimorphite is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Hunan, Yunnan, Sichuan, Fujian.
Available Hemimorphite specimens
Blue Hemimorphite Crystal Goblet – Yunnan, China
Rhodochrosite and Hemimorphite Pair – Yunnan, China
Sky Blue Hemimorphite – Botryoidal Form – Yunnan Province, China
