Otavite
| Otavite | |
|---|---|
 Otavite, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia |
|
| General | |
| Category | Carbonate minerals |
| Formula (repeating unit) |
CdCO3 |
| Strunz classification | 05.AB.05 |
| Identification | |
| Crystal system | Trigonal |
Otavite is a rare cadmium carbonate mineral with formula: CdCO3. Otavite crystallizes in the trigonal system and forms encrustations and small scalenohedral crystals that have a pearly to adamantine luster. The color is white to reddish to yellow brown. Its Mohs hardness is 3.5 to 4 and the specific gravity is 5.04. Associated minerals include azurite, calcite, malachite, and smithsonite.
It was first described in 1906 from the Tsumeb district near Otavi, Namibia.
