mineral
Chalcopyrite (Peacock Ore)
Chalcopyrite (CuFeS2)
Hardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale. Color: Brass yellow to golden-yellow, often with iridescence (tarnish) displaying purple, blue, red, and green hues. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Tetragonal. Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3.
- Hardness
- 3
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 on Mohs scale. Color: Brass yellow to golden-yellow, often with iridescence (tarnish) displaying purple, blue, red, and green hues. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Tetragonal. Specific Gravity: 4.1-4.3.
Formation & geological history
Forms primarily in hydrothermal vein deposits, contact metamorphic rocks, and magmatic segregation deposits associated with mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks.
Uses & applications
Chalcopyrite is the most important commercial ore of copper. It is also collected by mineral enthusiasts for its striking metallic luster and iridescent tarnish.
Geological facts
When exposed to air and acid, chalcopyrite tarnishes to form brilliant rainbow colors, leading to its nickname 'Peacock Ore'. It produces a greenish-black streak when scratched across a porcelain plate.
Field identification & locations
Look for brassy golden colors with metallic luster and iridescent purple or blue tarnish. It is softer than pyrite (fool's gold) and can easily be scratched with a steel knife.
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