mineral
Chalcopyrite (or Pyrite Ore)
CuFeS2 (Copper Iron Sulfide)
Hardness: 3.5-4 (Mohs), Color: Brass yellow to golden with yellowish-brown weathered crust, Luster: Metallic to dull metallic, Crystal Structure: Tetragonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3
- Hardness
- 3
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 (Mohs), Color: Brass yellow to golden with yellowish-brown weathered crust, Luster: Metallic to dull metallic, Crystal Structure: Tetragonal, Cleavage: Indistinct, Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal vein deposits, contact metamorphic zones, and magmatic segregations, often alongside other sulfide minerals like pyrite, bornite, and sphalerite.
Uses & applications
Primary commercial ore of copper metal. Also valued as geological study specimens and for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Often called 'Fool's Gold' alongside pyrite, chalcopyrite is actually softer than pyrite and easily tarnishes into vivid iridescent colors (peacock ore). It has been mined for copper since ancient times.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its brassy metallic luster, brass-yellow fine grains, and distinct golden glint when turned under light. Commonly found in copper mining districts globally. Streaks greenish-black.
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