Smithsonite

Smithsonite usually occurs as bluish green or green botryoidal masses or soft layers. These are polished and used as an ornamental stone (sometimes called bonamite). It may also be colored pink by cobalt, or yellow by cadmium. Crystals may also occur, but are cut for collectors only.

Occurrence

Colorless Smithsonite crystals are found in Zambia and Namibia. The blue-green masses occur in Spain, Green, and the USA. On the other hand, the yellow variety is found in Sardinia and the USA.

Smithsonite Properties

• Specific Gravity: 4.35
• Refractive Index: 1.62-1.85
• Birefringence (DR): 0.230
• Luster: Pearly
• Crystal Structure: Trigonal
• Composition: Zinc carbonate
• Hardness: 5

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Crystals Directory

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Birthstone

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