Domerockite is a rare arsenate mineral found as small, distinct tabular crystals within oxidized zones of zinc-copper deposits. It is primarily a collector's mineral prized for its rarity and crystal structure, usually originating from the Ojuela Mine in Mexico.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

mineralrare

Domerockite

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

No image

Is this domerockite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch domerockite with a known reference. Domerockite sits at Mohs 3-4, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Domerockite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Domerockite typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: colorless, white.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: triclinic. Typical habit: tabular crystals.

Often confused with

Domerockite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside domerockite

Minerals reported to co-occur with domerockite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Cu₃Zn₄(AsO₄)₂(OH)₈·10H₂O
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 3.59 g/cm³
Colors: Colorless White
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Triclinic
Crystal habit: Tabular Crystals
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Oxidized Hydrothermal Zones
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen quality

Where rockhounds find domerockite

Classic worldwide localities

Mapimi, Durango, Mexico

Field-hunting tip

Look in oxidized hydrothermal zones country, the host setting where domerockite typically forms. If you start seeing adamite, legrandite, smithsonite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tabular crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify domerockite?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include colorless, white.

Where is domerockite found?+

Notable localities include Mapimi, Durango, Mexico.

How much is domerockite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen quality. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is domerockite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic and copper; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like domerockite?+

Domerockite is most often confused with Legrandite, Adamite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with domerockite?+

Domerockite commonly co-occurs with Adamite, Legrandite, Smithsonite, Hemimorphite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does domerockite form in?+

Domerockite typically forms in oxidized hydrothermal zones. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is domerockite used for?+

Domerockite is used in collector.

Find domerockite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.