Discover fluorescent Adamite from Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Durango, Mexico, a classic locality for this zinc arsenate mineral.
Tested by GeoFossils, these specimens display their strongest green fluorescence under Medium Wave (MW) UV. Green fluorescence is also visible under Short Wave (SW) and Long Wave (LW) UV, while some specimens show additional pale blue to blue-white fluorescent areas from an unidentified associated mineral phase.
The combination of Ojuela provenance and multi-wavelength fluorescence makes this material particularly relevant to collectors of fluorescent minerals and Mexican mineral specimens.
UV fluorescence
| UV wavelength | Observed response |
|---|---|
| Medium Wave (MW) | Predominant green fluorescence |
| Short Wave (SW) | Green fluorescence, generally weaker and more localised than MW |
| Long Wave (LW) | Green fluorescence; some specimens also show pale blue to blue-white fluorescence from an unidentified associated mineral phase |
These responses have been observed by GeoFossils on the material offered here. Fluorescence can vary between specimens and may appear different according to UV lamp output, ambient lighting and viewing conditions.
Scientific information
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Primary mineral | Adamite |
| Chemical formula | Zn₂(AsO₄)(OH) |
| Mineral class | Arsenate |
| Mineral group | Olivenite Group |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 |
| Typical lustre | Vitreous |
| Locality | Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Durango, Mexico |
| Predominant UV wavelength | Medium Wave (MW) |
| Observed fluorescence | Green under MW, SW and LW |
Formation & mineralogy
Adamite is a secondary zinc arsenate hydroxide that forms in the oxidised zones of zinc deposits containing arsenic-bearing minerals. It commonly occurs as distinct crystals, radial aggregates, rosettes and crystalline crusts.
The pale blue to blue-white fluorescent areas visible on some GeoFossils specimens have not been analytically identified and are therefore not attributed to a particular associated mineral.
Locality & collector significance
Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Durango, Mexico, is a classic locality for Adamite and a diverse range of secondary arsenate minerals formed within its extensively oxidised mineral deposit.
The locality also has particular mineralogical significance as the type locality of paradamite, the triclinic dimorph of Adamite.
What causes the fluorescence?
The green fluorescence documented in some Ojuela Adamite is associated with trace uranyl ions within the mineral. Fluorescence can vary considerably between individual specimens.
GeoFossils has confirmed the fluorescent response of the material offered here but has not analytically determined the activator within each specimen.
Viewing your UV mineral
For the strongest observed response, view the specimen in a dark environment using an appropriate Medium Wave mineral UV lamp. Short Wave and Long Wave lamps can be used separately to observe the additional responses present within the material.
Always follow the UV equipment manufacturer's instructions and avoid looking directly into the UV light source.
Care instructions
Handle Adamite carefully and store it separately from harder minerals to reduce the risk of scratching or chipping. Remove loose dust with a soft, dry brush and avoid abrasive cleaning methods or harsh household chemicals.
Frequently asked questions
What colour does this Adamite fluoresce?
GeoFossils has observed green fluorescence under Medium Wave, Short Wave and Long Wave UV. Medium Wave produces the predominant response in this collection.
Which UV wavelength is best for viewing this Adamite?
Medium Wave (MW) produces the strongest green fluorescence observed by GeoFossils on this material.
What are the pale blue or blue-white fluorescent areas?
Some specimens contain an associated mineral phase that displays pale blue to blue-white fluorescence. This material has not been analytically identified, so GeoFossils does not attribute the response to a particular mineral.
Does every specimen fluoresce identically?
No. Natural variations in mineral distribution mean the coverage and intensity of fluorescence can differ between specimens.
Where is this Adamite from?
This material is from Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Durango, Mexico.
Location
Ojuela Mine | Mapimí | Durango | Mexico
Please note
Natural mineral specimens vary in shape, colour, crystal coverage and fluorescent response. UV colours may also appear slightly different in person because lamp output, ambient lighting, camera settings and viewing conditions can affect their appearance.
Exciting Shipping Options! 🚚✨
We’ve got you covered with fantastic shipping choices!
- DHL Delivery: Enjoy fast and reliable shipping within the UK Mainland for just £5.80 (up to 20kg)! Your treasures will be on their way to you in no time!
- Royal Mail for Small Parcels: Choose our budget-friendly option at just £3.40 (up to 2kg) for those smaller goodies!
Your satisfaction is our priority, and we can’t wait for you to receive your order! Thank you for shopping with us!