How do I identify Adamite?

Adamite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Ideally white color, Greasy, Vitreous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Adamite?

Adamite typically appears in Ideally white, colourless, frequently pale yellow, honey-yellow, brownish yellow, rose red, blue, pale green to green, may be zoned, bright green (Cu-bearing), bright pink, purple (Co-bearing). Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

Adamite has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Adamite

A variety of Olivenite Group

Rare

What is Adamite?

Due to imperfections while forming, adamite can display a magnificent array of colors that are cunningly disguised in a russet-colored rocky cloak. It is rich in zinc but is more sought after by crystal collectors than ore-seekers. The most stunning examples of adamite have been found in Mexico.

Healing Properties

Adamite activates and aligns the Solar Plexus and Heart chakras to unveil the inner dreams and desires of its user and to help them discover ways to pursue those dreams. It is said to reconnect the body to the mind, bringing a sense of balance and harmony between the two. Its energies may influence chemical imbalances in the physical body and help to restore energy.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.708-1.773
Birefringence: 0.031-0.050
Pleochroism: None
Optical Character: Biaxial positive or negative

Adamite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Adamite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Adamite Localities Map

See where Adamite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Associated Chakras

Solar Plexus

Heart

Key Characteristics

Formation of Adamite

Adamite occurs as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of zinc- and arsenic-bearing hydrothermal mineral deposits. It occurs in association with smithsonite, hemimorphite, scorodite, olivenite, calcite, quartz and iron and manganese oxides. The yellow to bright lime-green colored crystals and druze along with its distinctive fluorescence make adamite a favorite among mineral collectors. Found in Mapimí, Durango, Mexico; Greece; and California and Utah in the United States. Adamite was named after the French mineralogist Gilbert-Joseph Adam (1795–1881). It was first described in 1866 for an occurrence at the type locality of Chañarcillo, Copiapó Province, Atacama Region, Chile.

Health & Safety Information

⚠️Harm Reason: Adamite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Arsenic, Copper.
⚠️Heavy Metal: Arsenic, Copper
⚠️How to prevent the risks of Adamite?

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Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Ideally white, colourless, frequently pale yellow, honey-yellow, brownish yellow, rose red, blue, pale green to green, may be zoned, bright green (Cu-bearing), bright pink, purple (Co-bearing)
Hardness (Mohs): 3.5
Density: 4.435 g/cm³
Streak: white
Luster: Greasy, Vitreous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous
Crystal System: Orthorhombic