Quick Facts
Formation & Origin
Adamite is a zinc arsenate hydroxide that forms in the oxidized zone of zinc ore deposits. Its vivid yellow-green color (which can reach almost neon intensity) comes from a combination of the zinc-arsenate chemistry and sometimes trace copper or cobalt.
The most extraordinary adamite variety is 'cuprian adamite' from the Ojuela Mine in Mexico - copper substituting for some of the zinc produces a vivid purple color that's among the most striking in the mineral kingdom. Finding vivid purple and neon green adamite growing together on the same specimen is one of the great visual thrills in mineral collecting.
Adamite also fluoresces bright green under ultraviolet light, adding another visual dimension to an already spectacular mineral. Named after French mineralogist Gilbert-Joseph Adam, adamite is a relatively rare mineral that has achieved outsized collector popularity thanks to the extraordinary specimens from Mapimi. SAFETY NOTE: Contains arsenic. Handle with care.
Identification Guide
Adamite is identified by its vivid yellow-green (or purple in cuprian variety) color, small prismatic to wedge-shaped crystals, and bright green UV fluorescence. At hardness 3.5, it's soft.
Distinguish from smithsonite (similar zinc deposit origin but carbonate, different forms), hemimorphite (zinc silicate, different crystal habit), and olivenite (copper arsenate, different color). Adamite's specific vivid yellow-green with UV fluorescence is diagnostic.
Spotting Fakes
Adamite is a specialist mineral not commonly faked. Ojuela Mine specimens are the gold standard and command premium prices. As with all arsenate minerals, the concern is safe handling. Display in enclosed cases, wash hands after handling, and never make gem elixirs.
Cultural & Metaphysical Traditions
Presented as cultural traditions, not scientific evidence
Adamite has no traditional metaphysical history. Modern practitioners who work with it associate its vivid color with emotional courage, creative energy, and finding joy. The cuprian variety's purple connects it to spiritual insight. NOTE: Contains arsenic. Strictly a display mineral, not for carrying or body contact.
Where It's Found
World's finest specimens, all color varieties
Good quality cuprian (purple) specimens
Fine specimens alongside other secondaries
Some specimens from oxidized zinc deposits
Price Guide
Good to Know
Scratch test: At hardness 3.5, Adamite can be scratched with a copper coin. Handle gently and keep away from harder stones in your collection.
Sources: Found in 4 notable locations worldwide, from Mexico to United States.
Heft test: Adamite has a specific gravity of 4.34 - noticeably heavier than quartz. You'll feel the density when you pick it up.
Related Minerals
Another arsenate from same deposits
Zinc carbonate from similar zinc deposits
Copper arsenate, related chemistry
Another rare zinc arsenate, yellow, from Ojuela Mine