How do I identify Goslarite?

Goslarite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless; light brown color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Goslarite?

Goslarite typically appears in Colourless; light brown, green or blue; white; colourless in transmitted light.. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Goslarite?

Goslarite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Goslarite

A variety of Minerals

What is Goslarite?

Goslarite is a hydrated zinc sulfate mineral (ZnSO4 • 7H2O) which was first found in the Rammelsberg mine, Goslar, Harz, Germany. It was described in 1847. Goslarite belongs to the epsomite group which also includes epsomite (MgSO4 • 7H2O) and morenosite (NiSO4 • 7H2O). Goslarite is an unstable mineral at the surface and will dehydrate to other minerals like bianchite (ZnSO4 • 6H2O), boyleite (ZnSO4 • 4H2O) and gunningite (ZnSO4 • H2O).

Goslarite Market Value Calculator

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

Goslarite Localities Map

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

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Characteristics of Goslarite

The composition of goslarite was determined by the US National Bureau of Standards (now the National Institute of Standards and Technology) in 1959 as follows: SO3 27.84 wt%, ZnO 28.30 wt% and H2O 43.86 wt%. Goslarite's cleavage is perfect in {010}, as for epsomite and morenosite. The color of goslarite ranges from brownish to pinkish, blue, brown, colorless, green and green blue. The luster ranges from vitreous to nacreous and silky (if fibrous). Goslarite is soluble in water, has an astringent taste, and is strongly diamagnetic.