Smithsonite is a semiprecious mineral with a chemical composition of zinc carbonate (ZnCO₃). It is valued both for its aesthetic beauty and for its metaphysical and therapeutic properties.
Origin and composition:
- Chemical composition: Smithsonite is a zinc carbonate with the chemical formula ZnCO₃. It is formed by the oxidation of zinc in the presence of carbon dioxide.
- Origin: The mineral was first discovered in 1800 by mineralogist James Smithson, and its name comes from it. It is found in various mineral locations, often in association with zincite and other zinc minerals.
Physical characteristics:
- Aspect: Smithsonite appears in the form of Crystals prismatic or massive, often enslaved or arranged in spheroidal or botriodal formations. It can have a glassy or matte sheen.
- Color: The color of smithsonite ranges from white and gray to shades of pink, blue, green, and yellow. Its intense color is often due to the presence of impurities and variations in its crystalline structure.
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale, smithsonite has a hardness of about 4, making it relatively soft and easy to scratch.
Localization and Training:
- Localization: Smithsonite is found in various locations around the world, including Mexico, Australia, Pakistan, and in U.S. states such as Arizona and Montana. It can often be found in zinc oxide deposits and in the oxidation zone of zinc deposits.
- Training: Smithsonite forms under oxidation conditions in the presence of carbon dioxide and is often found in association with other zinc minerals.
