A single tabular almost perfect light green Bellingerite (nearly 2 mm.) with a diminute Gypsum xx beside, gently poached on matrix. The typical striations of this specie may be seen along the xx, and according to the reflections of bulb lightening. From Chuquicamata pit, Chuquicamata District, El Loa Province, Antofagasta Region, Chile. — Photo: Maurizio Dini · CC BY 3.0
Bellingerite
Bellingerite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the iodate class, with the chemical formula Cu₃(IO₃)₆·2H₂O.
It crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system (space group P-1).
Key properties: Mohs hardness 4; specific gravity 4.89; Very pale green streak; optically biaxial.
IMA symbol Blg, grandfathered status — known before the IMA’s founding, named in 1940.
Found as a rare secondary mineral in veinlets in a porphyry copper deposit.
It is found associated with Leightonite, gypsum.
The mineral was named to honor Herman C. Bellinger (1867–1940), General Manager of the Chile Exploration Company, who submitted the first specimens.