Sauconite

sauconite

hemimorphite

smithsonite

coronadite

Images
Formula: Na_0.3Zn₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(OH)₂.4H₂O
Phyllosilicate (sheet silicate), smectite group
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Specific gravity: 2.61 to 2.71
Hardness: 1 to 2
Streak: White
Colour: Reddish brown
Solubility: Soluble in water, decomposed by hydrochloric acid
Common impurities: Ti,Fe,Mn,Cu,Mg,Ca,K
Environments

Hydrothermal environments

Sauconite is a clay mineral which occurs filling vugs and seams in oxidised zinc and copper deposits; it may be redeposited at the water table. Associated minerals include hemimorphite, smithsonite, chrysocolla, coronadite and iron oxides (HOM, Dana).

Localities

There are two co-type Localities, the Friedensville mineand the Ueberroth Mine, both at Friedensville, Saucon Valley, Upper Saucon Township, Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, USA.

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