Hemimorphite

Hemimorphite

SCIENCE / MINERALOGY
Hemimorphite is a hydrated zinc silicate mineral, Zn₄Si₂O₇(OH)₂·H₂O. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and is named for hemimorphism, meaning opposite ends of an ideal crystal develop different forms. It occurs as colorless, white, blue, green, botryoidal, fibrous, and prismatic material.

GEOLOGY & FORMATION
Hemimorphite forms in the oxidized zones of zinc deposits where primary sphalerite and other zinc minerals weather near the surface. Silica-bearing groundwater combines with zinc to produce hemimorphite, often with smithsonite, hydrozincite, cerussite, calcite, and limonite. Major occurrences include China, Mexico, Namibia, Belgium, and the United States.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Hemimorphite is traditionally associated with communication, emotional honesty, compassion, personal growth, and taking responsibility for one's own reactions. Its asymmetric crystal form provides a useful symbol of balance that does not require perfect symmetry.

KEY PROPERTIES
Communication • Compassion • Emotional honesty • Growth • Responsibility • Balance • Self-awareness

CHAKRA: Throat • Heart
ELEMENT: Water • Air
ZODIAC: Libra • Pisces
MOHS HARDNESS: 4.5–5

ACCURACY / TRADE-NAME NOTE
Valid zinc silicate mineral. Avoid inhaling dust from zinc-rich specimens.