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Glite Dictionary
hemimorphite

hemimorphite

9.9
A white or pale mineral that contains zinc and is used as a source of the metal
  • noun
  • /ˌhɛmɪˈmɔrfɪt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : hemimorfita
  • Hemimorphite is an important source of zinc in many mining operations around the world.

Examples

  • The geologist identified the white crystals as hemimorphite during the field survey.

  • The geologist examined a piece of hemimorphite under the microscope.

  • Collectors prize the delicate, blue-green formations of hemimorphite for their beauty.

  • Many collectors seek rare hemimorphites for their mineral collections.

  • Hemimorphite is one of the most significant minerals mined for zinc production globally.

  • The mineral hemimorphite often forms striking clusters that attract collectors and enthusiasts.

  • In geology class, we learned that hemimorphite is categorized as a hydrated zinc silicate mineral.

Synonyms

calamine
vshemimorphite
  • Archaic
1 8.2

A pale pink or white mineral used to get zinc from the ground

is a specific hydrated zinc silicate form rather than a carbonate or mixed type

Surface Forms

hemimorphite singular
hemimorphites plural

Etymology

Hemimorphite comes from Greek parts hemi- meaning 'half', morph meaning 'shape', and the mineral ending -ite. The hemi- part is the same as in hemisphere, and the name fits because these crystals often have different shapes at the two ends, so thinking 'half-shape' helps you remember this mineral's uneven crystal ends.