Hemimorphite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Does Hemimorphite Make a Good Jewelry Stone?

With a hardness of 4.5 to 5 and perfect cleavage, hemimorphite is susceptible to scratches and breaks. For ring use, mount it in a protective setting. Wearing hemimorphites in earrings, pendants, or brooches poses fewer risks.

Hemimorphite is very rarely seen as a faceted gemstone. So far, only Mexico has produced suitable material. However, gem cutters have cut cabochons from material found in many locations.

Identifying Hemimorphite

As crystals, hemimorphites show different terminations at each end. Hence the name hemi - morphite, since each end or "half" takes a different "form."

This gem exhibits the pyroelectric effect. When heated, it generates an electrical charge.

In the early 19^th century, the British mineralogist James Smithson discovered that the zinc ore then known as calamine was composed of hemimorphite and smithsonite. These minerals, along with hydrozincite, are, in fact, distinct minerals despite their external similarities.

Are There Synthetic Hemimorphites?

There are no known synthetic hemimorphites. However, gemologists have identified artificial simulants, such as partially devitrified glass. (The process of devitrification produces crystals in normally amorphous glass).

Natural gems such as smithsonite, chrysocolla, and turquoise may also resemble hemimorphite. However, these gems possess very different properties. Gemologists should distinguish them easily. Chrysocolla's and turquoise's specific gravities differ significantly from hemimorphite's. Smithsonite's specific gravity and optic sign also differ from those of its former "partner in calamine."

Where are Hemimorphites Found?

In Mexico, Mapimi, Durango and Santa Eulalia, Chihuahua can produce transparent crystals up to several inches in length, which may yield stones up to approximately 7-10 carats. Blue crusts are also found. Other Mexican locations produce beautiful gems as well.

This mineral is found in various localities worldwide. Other notable gem-quality sources include the following:

• United States: southwestern states.
• China; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Republic of the Congo; Italy.

Hemimorphite Stone Sizes

Gem cutters have cut cabochons up to several inches in length from massive blue material. They've also faceted colorless material from Mexico into gems from 1-3 carats in size. Larger stones are very rare.

• Devonian Group (Calgary, Alberta, Canada): 1.90 (colorless, Mexico).

How to Care for Hemimorphites

Due to their relatively low hardness, store these gems separately from other harder, more common jewelry stones, such as quartz. For cleaning, use a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water only. Consult our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide for more recommendations.