Beaverite-(Zn)
Beaverite-(Zn) is a rare sulfato-hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula Pb(Fe^3⁺2Zn)(SO4)2(OH)6. It crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 7.BC.10 and under the Dana system as 30.2.5.9. The mineral is typically dark green to black in color, with a vitreous to subadamantine luster. It has a hardness of approximately 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale and a relatively high density. Beaverite-(Zn) is a member of the sulfato-hydroxide mineral group, characterized by complex structures involving sulfate and hydroxide ions.
Composition
- OOxygen36.0%
- PbLead33.3%
- ZnZinc10.5%
- SSulfur10.3%
- FeIron9.0%
- HHydrogen1.0%
Overview
Beaverite-(Zn) is a rare sulfato-hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula Pb(Fe^3⁺2Zn)(SO4)2(OH)6. It crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 7.BC.10 and under the Dana system as 30.2.5.9. The mineral is typically dark green to black in color, with a vitreous to subadamantine luster. It has a hardness of approximately 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale and a relatively high density. Beaverite-(Zn) is a member of the sulfato-hydroxide mineral group, characterized by complex structures involving sulfate and hydroxide ions.
Etymology
The name Beaverite-(Zn) is derived from its zinc content, as indicated by the suffix -(Zn). The mineral was named to reflect the presence of zinc in its chemical composition.
How to recognize it
Beaverite-(Zn) can be identified by its dark green to black color and vitreous to subadamantine luster. It has a hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, which is relatively soft, and a high density. A streak test may reveal a pale green or brownish streak. Due to its rarity and specific chemical composition, it is often confused with other sulfato-hydroxide minerals, but its color and luster are distinguishing features.
Trivia
Beaverite-(Zn) is notable for its unique chemical composition, which includes both iron and zinc in a sulfato-hydroxide structure. It crystallizes in the trigonal system, which is less common for sulfato minerals. The mineral is also rare, with only a few known localities, making it a subject of interest for mineral collectors and researchers.