Hemimorphite is an extremely rare gem-quality form of zinc silicate, once referred to as 'calamine'. Although 'calamine' is no longer used to refer to the gemstone as of recent times, it is still used in reference to 'calamine lotion', a pharmaceutical product composed of zinc and iron oxide used to relieve itching and minor skin irritations. Hemimorphite is closely associated with smithsonite, another rare collector's gem. For many years, because of their close resemblance to one another, hemimorphite and smithsonite were grouped together as 'calamine'. It wasn't until 1803 they were discovered to be two distinctively different minerals by James Smithson, mineralogist of the Smithsonian Institute.
Hemimorphite can be found in many areas of the world, but very few deposits yield gemstone quality materials. Some of the most significant deposits are from Vieille Montagne, Belgium and Aachen, Germany.
Hemimorphite is thought to be a stone of empathy. It is believed to help communicate feelings and inner emotions. It is said to help mend damaged relationships. Hemimorphite encourages love and compassion in those who wear it. It is closely associated with the zodiacal sign of Libra and is believed to best benefit the heart, crown and third eye chakras. It can encourage inner strength and psychic visions.
Physically, hemimorphite is thought to be able to alleviate hormonal headaches and ulcer-related pain. It is sometimes used for weight loss since it is a stone that is thought to provide energy.