Smithsonite properties

It was only in 1832 that this Stone was called smithsonite by François Sulpice Beudant. It was finally recognized as a stone on its own and put apart from other zinc minerals. Its name is in honor of the American James Smithsonite who founded the Smithsonite Institute of Washington DC and who showed the difference between a smithsonite and a hemimorphite.

It can also bear the names of bonamite, calamine and carbon zinc.

It is one of the most important minerals for the mine excavation of zinc.

The smithsonite is a microcrystalline mass. It can also be found as well shaped crystals. It can be found in oxidation zones of zinc mines by the reaction of solutions that have zinc sulfate.

It is hard to identify when it does not show its typical turquoise blue color or translucent green. In the presence of cobalt, the smithsonite can be pink and when in presence of cadmium, it is yellow.

History, legends and beliefs about the smithsonite

It has been known since the antiquity in Europe but was called calamine (this name gathers several stones composed of zinc minerals).

Mines: England, Belgium, Canada, France, Namibia, Spain, Mexico, Madagascar, Greece, the USA and Italy.

Healing properties and benefits of smithsonite

• Smithsonite would be well known for helping to strengthen the immune system.
• It could be used to strengthen the elasticity of veins and would help activating blood circulation.
• It would be useful against osteoporosis, digestive problems, and alcoholism, sinusitis and acne eruptions.
• Smithsonite would balance reproductive organs as well as the endocrinal system.
• It would be help regulating weight.
• It would be protect bones and arteries.
• Smithsonite would help the intestine, the liver and the pancreas to work properly.

Smithsonite jewelry samples