Gibbsite is prominent in bauxites from Arkansas, Jamaica, Suriname, Guyana, Brazil, West Africa, and India. Synthetic gibbsite is made from bauxite or high-alumina materials for use in the production of aluminum metal and alumina chemicals. For detailed physical properties, see oxide mineral (table).

How is Gibbsite formed?

Gibbsite is most frequently produced by weathering of rocks containing Al-bearing minerals and as such it is a major constituent of laterite and bauxite distributed through the weathering profile and occurring as weathering crusts.

Is Gibbsite a clay mineral?

Importance in Soil Environments

Gibbsite is by far the most common crystalline Al (hydr)oxide in soil environments. It is a major mineral in soils of the tropics and subtropics where it may be the dominant mineral in the clay fraction.