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Yellow Paradamite Balls
PHOSPHATES; ARSENATES · TRICLINIC

Paradamite

Zn2(AsO4)(OH)

Hardness
3.5
Streak
White
Spec. Gravity
4.5
System
Triclinic

About

Paradamite is a rare polymorph of the more common Adamite. It is chemically the same mineral type as Adamite, but being that it crystallizes in a different crystal system, it is scientifically recognized as an individual mineral type. It is generally very hard to distinguish from regular Adamite by looks alone. Paradamite crystals are almost always embedded in rusting, crumbly, brown Limonite that stains the hands.

Crystal Forms & Aggregates

As tabular and often rounded crystals, usually small in size and in crystal groupings.

Other ID Marks

Striking Features

Environment

Polymorphs

Noteworthy Localities

Paradamite is a very rare mineral with few localities. Its main occurrence is the prolific Adamite locality of Mapimi, Durango, Mexico. Two other localities are Tsumeb, Namibia; and Lavrion, Greece.

Common Mineral Associations

Distinguishing Similar Minerals

Olivenite - Usually has a greener color and usually occurs in tall, thin crystals.
Smithsonite - Usually occurs finely globular, and doesn't fluoresce.
Adamite - Different crystal form.

Photos