Zincolibethenite
Zincolibethenite is a rare phosphate mineral with the chemical formula copper zinc phosphate hydroxide, CuZnPO4OH. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as 8.BB.30 and in the Dana system as 41.6.6.5. This mineral exhibits a Mohs hardness of 4, a relatively low density, and a vitreous luster. It typically appears in green to yellowish-green colors. Zincolibethenite is a member of the libethenite group, which includes phosphate minerals with similar structural and chemical characteristics.
Composition
- OOxygen33.2%
- ZnZinc27.1%
- CuCopper26.4%
- PPhosphorus12.9%
- HHydrogen0.4%
Overview
Zincolibethenite is a rare phosphate mineral with the chemical formula copper zinc phosphate hydroxide, CuZnPO4OH. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is classified in the Strunz system as 8.BB.30 and in the Dana system as 41.6.6.5. This mineral exhibits a Mohs hardness of 4, a relatively low density, and a vitreous luster. It typically appears in green to yellowish-green colors. Zincolibethenite is a member of the libethenite group, which includes phosphate minerals with similar structural and chemical characteristics.
Etymology
Zincolibethenite is named in relation to libethenite, a mineral after which it is named, but with a zinc substitution in its chemical structure. The name reflects its chemical similarity to libethenite.
How to recognize it
Zincolibethenite can be identified by its low Mohs hardness of 4, which allows it to be scratched by a steel knife. It typically exhibits a green to yellowish-green color and a vitreous luster. The mineral can be distinguished from similar species by its chemical composition and crystal system. Its low hardness and color are key features for field identification.
Trivia
Zincolibethenite is notable for its rare occurrence and unique chemical composition, which includes copper, zinc, phosphorus, and hydroxide. It is part of the libethenite group, which is relatively uncommon in mineralogy. Its orthorhombic crystal system and specific chemical structure make it a subject of interest for mineralogists and collectors.
Indicative prices
Zincolibethenite is a rare mineral and is not commonly traded in gem or jewelry markets. As such, indicative price ranges are not widely documented. Specimens for collectors may vary by source and depend on origin and clarity. Due to its scarcity and limited commercial use, pricing information is scarce and primarily found in niche mineral specimen markets.