Zincite

Zincite is a mineral form of zinc oxide with the chemical formula ZnO. Natural zincite crystals are typically orange to red, though white or colorless specimens can occur when impurities are minimal. The color is largely due to trace dopants such as manganese or iron.

Zincite crystallizes in the hexagonal wurtzite structure and commonly forms prismatic, tabular, or radiating aggregates. It has a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is relatively soft and brittle, with a Mohs hardness around 4. Its specific gravity is about 5.5.

Zincite is found in oxidized zones of zinc-bearing ore deposits. A well-known locality is the Franklin district of New Jersey, USA, where it occurs with willemite and franklinite. Other occurrences are reported worldwide in hydrothermal zinc deposits and associated zinc oxides, often with other zinc minerals such as smithsonite or hemimorphite.

The name derives from zinc, from the German zink. The mineral is chiefly of interest to collectors and researchers studying natural zinc oxide; pure mineral specimens are rare and valued for their color and crystal form.

The chemical compound ZnO has wide industrial use as a white pigment, UV absorber, and semiconductor material. In nature, zincite itself is primarily a mineral specimen, while the synthetic ZnO produced industrially is more common for commercial applications.