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Hanksite
1 in the gallery
Hanksite is a rare evaporite mineral with a chemical formula that places it among sulfate minerals containing carbonate and chloride in a salty environmental setting. It forms as small crystals or crusts in saline, evaporitic environments, often displaying a translucent to pale-yellow hue and a dull to glassy lustre that can highlight its blocky crystals and tabular habit. Crystals are typically crust-like aggregates or short-prismatic forms that may show good cleavage under reflected light, with the overall appearance suggesting a mineral grown in brine-rich conditions.
- Formula
- Na22K(SO4)9(CO3)2Cl
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- Very High Interest
Where Hanksite is found
Top localities
- Searles Lake1 specimen
About Hanksite
The best-known specimens come from the United States, where Hanksite has been reported in localities associated with evaporite deposits and saline lakes. Collectors value Hanksite for its rarity and its distinctive composition among evaporites, as well as its scientific interest due to its mixed sulfate, carbonate, and chloride content. Specimens tend to be small but can be striking when they display coherent crystal faces or well-developed aggregates, making Hanksite a noteworthy target for micromounts and display cases alike.
