Reinerite

Chemical formula: Zn<sup>2+</sup><sub>3</sub>(As<sup>3+</sup>O<sub>3</sub>)<sub>2</sub>

Reinerite is a rare zinc arsenate, known for its colorless or yellowish crystals with a strong, adamantine luster.

## Characteristics Reinerite is a rare mineral from the arsenate group, chemically zinc arsenate. It forms well-developed, pseudo-octahedral or pseudo-tetrahedral crystals that can reach several millimeters in size. It also occurs in granular aggregates. It is colorless, white, pale yellow, or yellowish-green, and its most characteristic feature is a very strong, almost adamantine luster. ## Physical Properties This mineral is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 3. It is characterized by a high density, approximately 4.75 g/cm³, which is typical for arsenic-bearing minerals. It is transparent to translucent. It shows no cleavage, and its fracture is conchoidal. ## Colors and Varieties Reinerite is most often colorless or white. Specimens with delicate shades of yellow and green are also found. No named varieties of this mineral are distinguished. ## History and Name The mineral was discovered in the Tsumeb mine in Namibia and first described in 1958 by Jacques E. Geffroy and Jaap E. van der Veen. The name reinerite was given in honor of Willy Reiner (1895-1965), a German chemist and amateur mineralogist, who first drew attention to this mineral and provided samples for research. ## Uses Reinerite has no industrial application. Due to its rarity, attractive crystals, and origin from a classic locality, it is a sought-after and valued collector's mineral.

Properties

Mohs hardness
3
Luster
Adamantine
Streak
White
Density
4.75
Cleavage
None
Fracture
Conchoidal
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Crystal system
Orthorhombic

Diagnostic features

## Identification Key diagnostic features of reinerite include its high density, characteristic very strong luster (subadamantine to resinous), pseudo-octahedral crystal shape, and origin. It is relatively soft (hardness 3). It reacts with hydrochloric acid. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals Reinerite can be confused with other rare secondary minerals from the oxidation zone, such as legrandite or adamite, but it differs from them in crystal shape and significantly stronger luster. Sphalerite is much harder (3.5-4) and has excellent cleavage. Cerussite has an even higher density and a different chemical composition. ## Crystal Forms Reinerite crystallizes in the orthorhombic system, forming pseudo-octahedral or pseudo-tetrahedral crystals. Crystals are often striated. It also occurs in granular aggregates and as massive fillings.

Geological environment

## Genesis Reinerite is a secondary mineral, forming in the oxidation zones of polymetallic ore deposits, especially those rich in zinc and arsenic. It forms under low-temperature alteration conditions of primary ore minerals, such as tennantite or sphalerite. ## Mineral Associations This mineral most often co-occurs with other rare secondary minerals, such as tennantite, germanite, galena, sphalerite, chalcocite, bornite, digenite, smithsonite, cerussite, anglesite, olivenite, duftite, and quartz. ## Localities The only confirmed and most important occurrence of reinerite in the world is the Tsumeb mine in the Oshikoto region of Namibia. This is the type locality for this mineral, and practically all known specimens come from this single location.

Rarity

Very rare

For collectors

## Quality Criteria The most desirable reinerite specimens are those with well-formed, sharp, and lustrous crystals that are transparent and have an attractive, pale yellow color. Specimens where reinerite crystals are embedded on a contrasting rock matrix or co-occur with other rare minerals from Tsumeb are also highly valued. Crystal size is a key factor influencing value. ## Popular Localities The Tsumeb mine in Namibia is the sole source of collectible reinerite specimens. Specimens from this historic, now closed mine are considered mineralogical classics and fetch high prices on the market.

Care and storage

## Cleaning Reinerite should only be cleaned very carefully, using a soft brush to remove dust. Contact with water and any chemicals should be avoided. Due to its arsenic content, basic hygiene rules, such as washing hands after contact, should be observed when handling the mineral. ## What to Avoid Contact with water, acids, detergents, and other cleaning agents that can damage or dissolve the mineral should be strictly avoided. Reinerite is sensitive to sudden temperature changes. It should not be exposed to prolonged sunlight. ## Storage Reinerite specimens are best stored in stable conditions, in a closed display box or cabinet, away from dust, moisture, and direct light. It should be protected from impacts and scratching by harder minerals.

External references

Sources

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