Collection: Hemimorphite

Hemimorphite is a rather spectacular secondary mineral , appreciated by both collectors and lithotherapy enthusiasts.

🔹 Hemimorphite Identity Card

• Chemical formula : Zn₄Si₂O₇(OH)₂·H₂O

• Group : Silicate (subgroup of sorosilicates)

• Crystal system : Orthorhombic

• Hardness : 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale

• Density : Approximately 3.4 to 3.5

• Color : Sky blue to turquoise blue, sometimes colorless, white, brownish, greenish

• Luster : Vitreous to silky

• Transparency : Transparent to translucent

• Cleavage : Perfect to imperfect

🧭 Origin and deposits

Hemimorphite forms in the oxidation zones of zinc deposits , often in association with smithsonite, willemite or limonite. It is found in several regions of the world:

• Mexico (especially the Ojuela region, famous for its turquoise blue crystals)

• China

• UNITED STATES

• Belgium

• Italy

• Algeria

✨ Special features

The name hemimorphite comes from the Greek hemi (half) and morphè (shape), in reference to the asymmetrical morphology of its crystals: the two ends of the same crystal can have very different shapes — a rare phenomenon.

💎 Use

• In collection : Highly prized for its vibrant color and aesthetic crystalline shapes.

• In jewelry : Uncommon because of its fragility, but used in cabochons for pendants or rings.

• In lithotherapy :

  • It is attributed with calming and soothing properties.

  • It would promote sincere communication and emotional acceptance .

  • It would be linked to the throat chakra , promoting personal expression.

⚠️ Please note

Hemimorphite can sometimes be confused with smithsonite (another zinc mineral) because they have a similar appearance. However, their chemical and crystal structure are different.