Rough mozarkite is a rare mineral found only in Missouri. The color can vary from red and pink to green and brown. The mineral was discovered near the lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, hence its name. While it is not commonly found, those lucky enough to see it often prize it for its unusual beauty.
What is rough mozarkite, and where is it found
Mozarkite is an essential variety of chert, which has won distinction as a particular form or type because it contains unique variations in color and can take a high polish. It consists essentially of silica (quartz – SiO2) with varying amounts of chalcedony mixed into its composition to give off vibrant hues when held up against light; this makes Mozarkites particularly suited for semi-precious gemstones.
The history of the mineral can be traced back to the early 1950s, when it was first discovered in Benton County, Missouri. Since then, the rock has been found primarily in west-central Missouri south of the Missouri River and west of the Lake of the Ozarks.
On July 21, 1967, mozarkite was adopted as the official state rock of Missouri.
Uses
Since Rough Mozarkite can take a high polish, it is often used in jewelry making and other lapidary arts. Many people also collect it for its beauty.
The best way to find this rock is to search in areas of west-central Missouri, south of the Missouri River, and west of the Lake of the Ozarks. It can also be found in residual boulders along ditches and roadcuts. The best time to look for Rough Mozarkite is after a rainfall when the water has cleared away some of the debris.
Once you have found it, you can take it home, polish it, or use it in jewelry making. You can also enjoy its beauty by keeping it as decoration.
Similar rocks
Chert, Flint, Chalcedony, and Jasper look similar to Rough Mozarkite, but they all are different types of rocks.
- Chert is a sedimentary rock composed of microcrystalline quartz. It does not have chalcedony mixed into its composition.
- Flint is a sedimentary rock composed of microcrystalline quartz. It has a high iron content, which gives it a dark color.
- Chalcedony is a type of quartz that is found in a variety of colors. It does not have the same vibrant colors.
- Jasper is an opaque, impure variety of silica. It contains more than just silica and chalcedony; it can also include other minerals such as iron or clay.
FAQ
Where can I find mozarkite?
Rough Mozarkite is found in west-central Missouri, south of the Missouri River and west of the Lake of the Ozarks.
How can I tell the difference between Rough Mozarkite and other rocks?
The best way to tell the difference is by its colors. Rough mozarkite has many different colors, whereas chert, flint, chalcedony, and jasper do not. Another way to tell the difference is by its hardness. Rough mozarkite is harder than flint and chalcedony but not as hard as jasper.
Can I find Rough Mozarkite in my backyard?
The best way to find it is to search in areas of west-central Missouri, south of the Missouri River, and west of the Lake of the Ozarks. It can also be found in residual boulders along ditches and roadcuts. The best time to look for Rough Mozarkite is after a rainfall when the water has cleared away some of the debris.
Final words
Rough mozarkite is a beautiful and unique mineral found in Missouri. It is perfect for lapidary arts and jewelry making because of its high polish and vibrant colors. If you are ever in the west-central Missouri area, keep an eye out for this state rock.
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