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Chemical Formula | ZnS This is the formula for pure Wurtzite. However, since it usually occurs with some iron replacing the zinc, its formula is scientifically recognized as: (Zn,Fe)S |
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Composition | Zinc sulfide |
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Variable Formula | (Zn,Fe)S |
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Color | Light to dark brown |
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Streak | Light brown |
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Hardness | 3½ - 4 |
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Crystal Forms and Aggregates |
(Hexagonal) Occurs in pyramidal crystals, often striated or with growth layers. Also occurs as short prismatic and tabular crystals, in capillary groupings, as fibrous and columnar masses, and in compacted aggregates. |
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Transparency | Translucent to nearly opaque |
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Specific Gravity | 4.0 |
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Luster | Resinous |
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Cleavage | 2,1 - basal ; 3,1 - prismatic |
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Fracture | Uneven |
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Tenacity | Brittle |
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Polymorphs | Sphalerite |
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In Group | Sulfides ; Simple sulfides |
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All About | Wurtzite is a rare, high temperature polymorph of the mineral Sphalerite. It forms at temperatures above
2192º F (1200º C) as hexagonal crystals. An ornamental stone known as Schalenblende (an intergrowth of Wurtzite, Sphalerite, and Galena) is usually referenced with Wurtzite. |
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Uses | Wurtzite is a very rare mineral, and is only of value to scientists and mineral collectors. |
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Striking Features | Streak, color, and crystal habits |
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Complex Tests | Dissolves in hydrochloric acid, producing a sulfurous, rotten-egg odor |
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Popularity (1-3) | 3 |
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Prevalence (1-3) | 3 |
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Demand (1-3) | 2 |
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Distinguishing Similar Minerals |
Sphalerite - differs in crystal form and cleavage |
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Commonly Occurs With |
Sphalerite, Galena, Marcasite, Pyrite |
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Noteworthy Localities |
Wurtzite occurs in Oruro and Potosi, Bolivia; Tsumeb, Namibia; Tuscany, Italy; and Pribam, Czechoslovakia. In the U.S., it is found in Butte, Silver Bow Co., Montana; Frisco, Beaver Co., Utah; Ogdensburg, Sussex Co., New Jersey; Negley, Columbiana Co., Ohio; and Thomaston, Litchfield Co., Connecticut. Intergrowths of Wurtzite, Sphalerite, and Galena ("Schalenblende") occur in the the lead mines of Reynolds Co., Missouri. It is found in Canada in Mont Saint Hilaire, Quebec. |
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