Smithsonite occurs in beds and veins in limestones, where it is associated with galena and sphalerite. It is especially common in the upper, oxidized zone of veins of zinc ores and as a residual deposit covering the surface of weathered limestone containing zinc minerals.

Where is smithsonite most commonly found?

Smithsonite occurs in beds and veins in limestones, where it is associated with galena and sphalerite. It is especially common in the upper, oxidized zone of veins of zinc ores and as a residual deposit covering the surface of weathered limestone containing zinc minerals.

What is magnesite used for?

Magnesite is used as a refractory material, a catalyst and filler in the production of synthetic rubber, and a material in the preparation of magnesium chemicals and fertilizers. For detailed physical properties, see carbonate mineral (table).

How do I know which smithsonite I have?

Physical Properties of Smithsonite Usually brown or gray, but may be colorless, white, yellow, green, blue or pink. The colors can be spectacular, and that makes smithsonite popular with people who collect mineral specimens and gems. Perfect rhombohedral cleavage. Uneven to conchoidal fracture.

How is brucite formed?

Brucite (Mg(OH)2) has an hexagonal structure (space group Pm1). It is often formed from the alteration of periclase (MgO) in Mg-bearing limestones and dolomites. These occurrences can be due to low-temperature hydrothermal alteration or metamorphism of limestones and schists and during the serpentinization of dunite.

What is smithsonite worth?

Smithsonite, a zinc carbonate mineral commonly found in the oxidized part of metallic deposits around the world, is treasured by collectors for it’s vibrant color spectrum and frequent association with other beautiful ‘secondary’ minerals….Smithsonite.

Smithsonite $950 $715
Mexico 5.0 X 4.5 X 2.0 cm

What is smithsonite good for?

Smithsonite is used by crystal therapists to help heal the reproductive organs and balance the endocrine system. It can boost physical energy and the immune system. Smithsonite is also used by crystal therapists and energy healers to help to: activate the thymus gland.

Does magnesite contain asbestos?

Typically magnesite flooring does not contain asbestos however it has been found in some magnesite floors. An owners corporation could be liable for diseases found to be caused by the asbestos in magnesite flooring if the magnesite flooring is common property.

Is magnesite a gemstone?

Magnesite is a beautiful gemstone that looks similar to Turquoise or Howlite. When cut and polished into beads, it features a dark thread of veins or a web-like matrix across its surface, making it an attractive gem to use for jewelry-making projects.

What does smithsonite look like?

Smithsonite Information. Hexagonal (R) (trigonal). Crystals rhombohedral; massive, botryoidal, compact, stalactic. White, gray, pale to deep yellow, yellowish brown to brown, pale green, apple green, blue-green, blue, pale to deep pink, purplish, rarely colorless.

Does brucite contain asbestos?

Brucite: A sheet mineral with the composition Mg(OH)2….Non-Mandatory.

Type of asbestos Index of refraction
Chrysotile n = 1.550.
Amosite n = 1.670 or 1.680.
Crocidolite n = 1.690.
Anthophyllite n = 1.605 and 1.620.

How do you identify brucite?

Brucite occurs in a white, yellow, gray-blue, gray or blue color. It exhibits perfect cleavage, transparent appearance, non-fluorescent luminescence, and non-magnetic properties. The mineral has irregular fractures, vitreous luster and white streak. It can be formed as lamellar structures or fibrous crystals.

What Colour is Cerussite?

Cerussite
Color Colorless, white, gray, blue, or green
Crystal habit Massive granular, reticulate, tabular to equant crystals
Twinning Simple or cyclic contact twins
Cleavage Good [110] and [021]