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 — that is 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.