Aldridgeite with Ktenasite

specimen number:
2133218

location:
Kelly Mine, Socorro Co., New Mexico, USA

description:
Pale blue to green micro crystals and masses across the front of matrix.

Aldridgeite is a rare secondary sulfate mineral that was first discovered at the Iron Monarch open cut in South Australia and later identified in the United Kingdom. Geologically, it typically forms in the oxidized zones of cadmium-bearing lead-zinc ore deposits, where it occurs as a result of the weathering of primary sulfide minerals. It is chemically defined as a water-bearing calcium, copper, and zinc sulfate, and it is a member of the devilline mineral group. The mineral usually appears as tiny, vitreous, pale blue to greenish-blue crystals that often form radiating lath-like clusters or thin crusts on a rock matrix.

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