Mimetite
| Colour | Yellow, Orange, Brown |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 3.5–4 |
| Lustre | Resinous, subadamantine |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | [101] Imperfect |
| Fracture | Brittle, conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | Pb 5 (AsO 4 ) 3 Cl |
| Specific gravity | 7.1–7.24 |
What is Mimetite?
Mimetite is a lead arsenate chloride mineral which forms as a secondary mineral in lead deposits, usually by the oxidation of galena and arsenopyrite. The name derives from the Greek Μιμητής mimetes, meaning "imitator" and refers to mimetite's resemblance to the mineral pyromorphite. This resemblance is not coincidental, as mimetite forms a mineral series with pyromorphite and with vanadinite. Notable occurrences are Mapimi, Durango, Mexico, and Tsumeb, Namibia.
How to identify Mimetite
- Lustre: Resinous, subadamantine.
- Hardness: Mohs 3.5–4 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Hexagonal crystal system.
Mimetite in different forms
Stones often confused with Mimetite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Mimetite?
Mimetite is Mohs 3.5–4 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Mimetite?
Mimetite is typically yellow, orange, brown (Pale to bright yellow, yellowish brown, yellow-orange, white, may be colorless).