Jump to content

Ashoverite

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ashoverite
General
CategoryMineral
Formula
(repeating unit)
Zn(OH)2
IMA symbolAov
Strunz classification4.FA.10
Dana classification6.2.11.1
Crystal systemTetragonal
Identification
ColorColourless, milky
CleavagePerfect on {001}
LusterVitreous, Dull
StreakWhite
DiaphaneityTranslucent
Specific gravity3.3
Optical propertiesUniaxial (+)

Ashoverite is one of three polymorphs of zinc hydroxide, Zn(OH)2. It is a rare mineral first found in a limestone quarry near Ashover, Derbyshire, England, in 1988.[1] It has also been found in the Harz mountain range in Germany, and in Namibia.

The mineral was discovered after samples of the polymorph sweetite were sent to labs by S. A. Rust. Some specimens contained what appeared to be baryte but, which on further examination, were found to be a previously undescribed mineral.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Clark, A. M.; Fejer, E. F.; Creesy, G; Tandy, P. C. (1988). "Ashoverite, a new mineral, and other polymorphs of Zn(OH)2 from Milltown, Ashover, Derbyshire" (PDF). Mineralogical Magazine. 52 (368): 699–702. Bibcode:1988MinM...52..699C. doi:10.1180/minmag.1988.052.368.14.