The mineral borax is directly deposited in arid regions from the evaporation of water in intermittent lakes called playas. The playas form only in rainy seasons due to runoff from adjacent mountains. The runoff is rich in the element boron and is highly concentrated by evaporation in the arid climate. Eventually the concentration is so great that crystals of borax and other boron minerals form and accumulate to great thickness. Kernite is found at the bottom of these deposits in stratified units with some kernite crystal layers growing several feet thick.
Individual crystals can be quite transparent and appear similar to certain gypsum crystals.
However, kernite is harder and forms splintery cleavage fragments. Specimens of kernite are interesting, and can make a good addition to one's collection. Color is white or gray to colorless. Luster is vitreous to greasy. Transparency crystals are transparent to translucent.