Zincite

Zincite is the mineral form of zinc oxide, and is typically rather rare in nature, although synthetic crystals can be grown and are quite widely sold online.

It is probably best known from the Franklin and Sterling Hill mines of New Jersey, USA, where it occurs alongside many other zinc minerals.

Information about Zincite

Zincite is a rare oxide mineral that naturally occurs as bright red, orange, or yellow crystals, though pure zinc oxide is colourless.

The vibrant hues are due to trace impurities such as manganese and iron. It typically forms in granular, massive habits or as small hexagonal crystals, often intergrown with other minerals like franklinite and willemite. Its lustrous and striking colours make it a favourite among collectors, though well-formed natural crystals are very rare.

 

Uses and History

The main use of zincite is as a collector’s mineral because of its rarity and colour.

Industrially, its synthetic equivalent, zinc oxide (ZnO), is widely used in ceramics, rubber production, pigments, cosmetics (sunscreen), and pharmaceuticals. Natural zincite from Franklin, New Jersey, was historically mined alongside franklinite and willemite for zinc ore extraction.

Zincite has been known since at least the 19th century, with major specimens discovered in Franklin and Sterling Hill, New Jersey, USA.

It was recognised as a distinct mineral species and became an important local zinc ore in the region. Today, it is rare in nature but can be produced synthetically, with striking artificial crystals sometimes sold to collectors.

 

Mineralogy

Chemistry
The mineral form of zinc oxide, with the chemical formula ZnO.
Colours and Variations

Yellow-orange to deep red, orange-red.

Streak
Yellowish-orange.
Luster
Subadamantine, resinous, silky, dull, earthy
Transparency
Translucent
Fracture
Translucent
Crystal habit
Crystals are rare but occur as pyramidal hexagonal crystals, often striated. Well formed crystals are uncommon. Most zincite occurs as massive or grains.
Mohs hardness
4
Fluorescence
Sometimes, not always. Yellow fluorescence under LW UV.
Specific Gravity
5.64 – 5.68
Easiest testing method

Hazards and Warnings

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis. When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

 

Translations

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English:

Italian:

Russian:

  • Цинкит

French:

Japanese:

  • 紅亜鉛鉱

Spanish:

  • Zinkit

German:

  • Zinkit

Korean:

Thai:

Gujurati:

Mandarin Chinese:

  • 红锌矿

Urdu:

Further Reading / External Links