Otavite

Otavite is a cadmium arsenate mineral, typically described with the hydrated form Cd(AsO4)·2H2O, though the exact degree of hydration can vary with formation conditions. It is considered a secondary mineral that develops in the oxidation zones of cadmium-bearing ore deposits.

The mineral is named after the Otavi region in Namibia, which hosts the type locality for otavite. It has been reported at other sites worldwide where cadmium and arsenate minerals occur, but the type locality remains the most well documented source.

In hand samples otavite is usually colorless to pale yellow, sometimes tinged with brown from impurities. The streak is white, and the luster is vitreous. Transparent to translucent crystals or masses are common, with a habit described as small prismatic crystals or granular aggregates.

Otavite forms through secondary processes, often as a result of the weathering and alteration of primary cadmium-bearing minerals. It is typically found in association with other cadmium minerals and various secondary arsenates and sulfates in oxidized zones.

See also

- List of minerals

- Cadmium minerals

- Arsenate minerals

Note: As with many hydrated arsenates, otavite’s precise hydration state and crystallography can vary between localities and paragenetic histories.