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, 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.