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Hydromagnesite
2 in the gallery
Hydromagnesite is a hydrated carbonate mineral in which magnesium is coordinated with carbonate groups and water. It commonly forms colorless to white, often translucent crystals and aggregates with a vitreous to pearly luster, sometimes showing a delicate, rhombohedral or tabular habit. Crystals can occur as platy or fans and are frequently associated with other carbonate minerals in hydrothermal and sedimentary environments.
- Formula
- Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2 · 4H2O
- Rarity
- Common
- Stability
- Moderately Stable
- Collector interest
- Moderate Interest
- Classification notes
- Carbonates; carbonate minerals (Strunz 5.A)
Where Hydromagnesite is found
Top localities
- California1 specimen
- Killa Saifullah1 specimen
About Hydromagnesite
Significant specimens come from several celebrated localities, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, with notable examples also found in the United States. The mineral’s interest to collectors lies in its soft, white to colorless appearance and its tendency to occur in well-formed synthetic-like crystals preserved in matrix, which can be striking when pristine. Hydromagnesite’s composition and water content make it sensitive to dehydration, so specimens are often best handled with care and stored in stable humidity. Collectors value it for its purity, light play on the crystal faces, and its association with classic carbonate assemblages.
