Comparison · Minerals vs Carbonates
Cerussite vs Smithsonite
Cerussite and Smithsonite are easy to confuse. Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Cerussite (Mohs 3–3.5), so Smithsonite will scratch Cerussite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Cerussite and Smithsonite
- Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Cerussite (Mohs 3–3.5), so Smithsonite will scratch Cerussite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 4.4 for Smithsonite).
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Cerussite is Transparent to translucent, Smithsonite is translucent.
- They overlap in blue and green, but Cerussite also comes in clear and gray and Smithsonite also comes in yellow, pink, and white.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Cerussite is Orthorhombic, Smithsonite is trigonal.
Cerussite vs Smithsonite properties
| Property | Cerussite | Smithsonite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Carbonates |
| Mohs hardness | 3–3.5 | 4.5 |
| Luster | Adamantine to vitreous/resinous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 6.5–6.6 | 4.4 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | trigonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Gray, Blue (rare), Green (rare) | Blue green, Green, Blue, Yellow, Pink, White |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $15–$900+ |
Which is more valuable?
Smithsonite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $120 against $20 for Cerussite, and premium Smithsonite can reach $900 or more.
About Cerussite
Cerussite is lead carbonate, PbCO3, a heavy, brittle mineral that forms in the oxidized gossan zones of lead ore deposits. Its very high density and strong adamantine luster make it feel and look far more valuable than its modest hardness would suggest, and colorless crystals can show fire approaching that of diamond. It commonly develops as twinned, reticulated, or star-shaped crystal groups.
About Smithsonite
Smithsonite is a zinc carbonate mineral most admired for its smooth botryoidal crusts and soft pastel colors, especially blue-green. It also occurs as massive material and rare rhombohedral crystals and is a recognized zinc ore.
Cerussite vs Smithsonite FAQ
Is Cerussite the same as Smithsonite?
No. Cerussite is a mineral while Smithsonite is a carbonate. Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Cerussite (Mohs 3–3.5), so Smithsonite will scratch Cerussite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
How can you tell Cerussite from Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Cerussite (Mohs 3–3.5), so Smithsonite will scratch Cerussite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Cerussite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 6.5–6.6 versus 4.4 for Smithsonite). Hold a thin edge to the light: Cerussite is Transparent to translucent, Smithsonite is translucent.
Which is harder, Cerussite or Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is harder: Mohs 4.5 against Mohs 3–3.5 for Cerussite.
Which is more valuable, Cerussite or Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $120 against $20 for Cerussite, and premium Smithsonite can reach $900 or more.
