Adamite

Adamite

By Tim Matthews, JD, FGA, GG, DGA,
CEO and President of JTV
Published: June 2014
Modified: March 2022
Adamite Rough

Adamite is one of the most well known minerals in the specimen market although the mineral itself is not terribly common. Cut gemstones are rare because of its low hardness (3.5), brittle tenacity, and distinct cleavage. It is highly prized for its aesthetic crystal shapes and formations, bright color (often a yellow to greenish-yellow), and stunning fluorescence (bright lime green).

General Information

Common Name
Adamite
Species
Adamite
Transparency
Opaque-Transparent
Dispersion
Strength: Strong Fire
Refractive Index
1.708-1.773
Birefringence
0.055
Optic Character
Biaxial
Optic Sign
Positive or Negative
Fluorescence
SWUV: strong lime green
LWUV: strong lime green
Pleochroism
Varies based on color
Hardness
3.5
Streak
white
Specific Gravity
4.320 - 4.480
Luster
Vitreous
Fracture
irregular, uneven, subconchoidal
Cleavage
good
Chemical Name
zinc arsenate hydroxide
Chemical Formula
Zn2(AsO4)(OH)
Crystal System
Orthorhombic
Chemistry Classification
Phosphate

Adamite Colors

  • Blue Adamite
    Blue
  • Brown Adamite
    Brown
  • Colorless Adamite
    Colorless
  • Green Adamite
    Green
  • Pink Adamite
    Pink
  • Purple Adamite
    Purple
  • Red Adamite
    Red
  • White Adamite
    White
  • Yellow Adamite
    Yellow

Countries of Origin

Russian Federation; Czechia; United States of America; Kazakhstan; United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Greece; Austria; Morocco; Unknown; China; Ireland; Poland; Algeria; Bulgaria; Chile; France; Serbia; Argentina; Iran (Islamic Republic of); Japan; Switzerland; Spain; Namibia; Congo (the Democratic Republic of the); Italy; Mexico; South Africa; Zimbabwe; Australia; Germany

Care

Adamite is brittle and soft so please take care when handling and be mindful of scratching. It is also soluble in acid.