By Chisom Ibemere
Adamite is a rare mineral first discovered in 1866 by French mineralogist Gilbert-Joseph Adam, after whom it was named.
It is mainly found in oxidized zinc ore deposits, often forming alongside minerals like smithsonite, hemimorphite, and limonite. The first major deposits were identified in Chihuahua, Mexico, but it has since been found in other parts of the world.
ADAMITE is typically yellow, green, pink, purple, or colorless with Orthorhombic crystal structure, forming prismatic or tabular crystals. It is vitreous (glassy) to resinous and Transparent to translucent. It glows bright green or yellow under UV light and a hardness of 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale (relatively soft)
ADAMITE is highly sought after by gem and mineral collectors due to its unique colors and fluorescence.
It is used in museum exhibits, jewelry, and gemstone collections.
Some high-quality Adamite specimens are showcased for their bright glow under UV light.
Some believe it promotes clarity, creativity, and emotional balance. It is used in geological and mineralogical research to study zinc and arsenate minerals.
Due to its limited supply and unique fluorescence, high-quality Adamite specimens are highly valuable.
Found in Mexico (Ojuela Mine), Greece, Namibia, Chile, and the USA. Mainly traded among mineral collectors, museums, and metaphysical practitioners.
Though not commercially mined for industrial use, its association with zinc ores makes it a useful indicator mineral for mining.
Adamite is a beautiful and rare mineral, mainly prized for its brilliant fluorescence, vivid colors, and collector’s value. Though it has limited industrial applications, its unique properties make it a valuable asset in the mineral and gemstone market worldwide.