Jarosite is a mineral belonging to the alunite group. It is a basic hydrated potassium and iron sulphate, with the chemical formula KFe3 (SO4) 2 (OH) 6. It is formed in mineral deposits from the oxidation of iron sulphides. Jarosite is often produced as a byproduct during the purification and refining of zinc and is also commonly associated with acid mine drainage and soil environments with acidic sulfates. Its name, given to it by Johann Friedrich August Breithaupt in 1852, derives from the name of the place where it was discovered, Barranco Jaroso in the Sierra Almagrera, near Los Lobos, Cuevas del Almanzora, Almería, Spain. The mineral usually occurs as a fibrous or granular aggregate. It is a very common mineral on Mars. In fact, jarosite was detected by three rovers on Mars: Spirit, Opportunity and Curiosity.
Dimensions
Height (cm): 3-4
Depth (cm): 2-3
Width (cm): 5-6
Weight (g): about 60
Property
Chemical formula: KFe3 (SO4) 2 (OH) 6
Mohs scale: 2.5-3.5
Relative density: 2.9-3.26
Crystalline System: Trigonal
