Zincalstibite is a rare layered double hydroxide mineral typically found as small, green, platy crystals in metamorphic carbonate deposits. It is primarily a collector's mineral and requires careful identification through analytical techniques due to its similarity to other hydrotalcite-group members.

Hardness

Mohs

Luster

Pearly

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareHydrotalcite Group family

Zincalstibite

Hardness: 2
Luster: Pearly
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this zincalstibite?

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 zincalstibite with a known reference. Zincalstibite sits at Mohs 2 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Zincalstibite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Zincalstibite typically shows a pearly luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: green, yellow-green.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: trigonal. Typical habit: platy or micaceous aggregates.

Often confused with

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

Often found alongside zincalstibite

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

All properties

Chemical formula: Zn₂AlSb(OH)₁₂
Mohs hardness: 2
Density: 3.37 g/cm³
Colors: Green Yellow-green
Streak: White
Luster: Pearly
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Trigonal
Crystal habit: Platy or Micaceous Aggregates
Cleavage: Perfect Basal
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphosed Carbonate Rocks
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find zincalstibite

Classic worldwide localities

Långban, Sweden
Sala, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphosed carbonate rocks country — that is the host setting where zincalstibite typically forms. If you start seeing calcite, dolomite, antimony oxides in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a platy or micaceous aggregates habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify zincalstibite?+

Mohs hardness is 2. It typically shows a pearly luster. The streak is white. Common colors include green, yellow-green.

Where is zincalstibite found?+

Notable localities include Långban, Sweden; Sala, Sweden.

How much is zincalstibite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is zincalstibite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains antimony and zinc; avoid inhaling dust or powder, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like zincalstibite?+

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

What minerals are found with zincalstibite?+

Zincalstibite commonly co-occurs with Calcite, Dolomite, Antimony oxides. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does zincalstibite form in?+

Zincalstibite typically forms in metamorphosed carbonate rocks. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is zincalstibite used for?+

Zincalstibite is used in collector.

Find zincalstibite on the map

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