Erythrite: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 10:51, 15 February 2025

A hydrated cobalt arsenate mineral

Etymology[edit]

The name "erythrite" is derived from the Greek word "erythros," meaning red, in reference to its distinctive color.

Chemical composition[edit]

Erythrite is a secondary hydrated cobalt arsenate mineral with the chemical formula Co_(AsO_)_·8H_O. It forms as a result of the oxidation of primary cobalt minerals.

Physical properties[edit]

Erythrite typically forms in the monoclinic crystal system and is known for its striking pink to red color, which is due to the presence of cobalt. It has a Mohs hardness of 1.5 to 2.5, making it relatively soft. The mineral exhibits a pearly to vitreous luster and has a specific gravity of approximately 3.1.

Occurrence[edit]

Erythrite is commonly found in the oxidized zones of cobalt and nickel deposits. It is often associated with other secondary minerals such as annabergite, scorodite, and cobaltite. Notable localities include the Bou Azzer District in Morocco, the Cobalt District in Ontario, Canada, and the Blackbird Mine in Idaho, USA.

Uses[edit]

While erythrite itself is not a major ore of cobalt, it serves as an important indicator mineral for the presence of cobalt deposits. Its vibrant color also makes it a popular specimen among mineral collectors.

Gallery[edit]

Erythrite specimen showing its characteristic pink color.

Related pages[edit]

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-== Erythrite ==
+{{short description|A hydrated cobalt arsenate mineral}}
-Erythrite, also known as cobalt bloom, is a mineral belonging to the arsenate mineral group. It is named after the Greek word "erythros," meaning red, due to its vibrant pink to purple-red coloration. Erythrite is valued for its aesthetic appeal and is often used as a collector's mineral.
+{{mineral}}
-=== Physical Properties ===
+==Etymology==
-Erythrite has a monoclinic crystal system and typically forms as prismatic or acicular crystals. It has a hardness of 1.5 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft mineral. Erythrite has a specific gravity of 3.0 to 3.3 and exhibits a perfect cleavage in one direction. Its luster is vitreous to sub-metallic, and it is translucent to transparent.
+The name "erythrite" is derived from the Greek word "erythros," meaning red, in reference to its distinctive color.
-=== Occurrence ===
+==Chemical composition==
-Erythrite is commonly found in oxidized cobalt and nickel deposits. It occurs as a secondary mineral in association with other arsenate minerals, such as annabergite and pharmacosiderite. Erythrite is often found in the form of crusts, botryoidal masses, or as coatings on other minerals. Notable localities for erythrite include Germany, Morocco, Chile, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
+Erythrite is a secondary [[hydrated cobalt arsenate]] mineral with the chemical formula Co_(AsO_)_·8H_O. It forms as a result of the oxidation of primary cobalt minerals.
-=== Uses ===
+==Physical properties==
-Erythrite is primarily valued for its aesthetic qualities and is sought after by mineral collectors. Its vibrant color and unique crystal formations make it a desirable addition to mineral collections. Erythrite is also occasionally used as a minor ore of cobalt, although its economic significance in this regard is limited.
+Erythrite typically forms in the [[monoclinic crystal system]] and is known for its striking pink to red color, which is due to the presence of cobalt. It has a [[Mohs hardness]] of 1.5 to 2.5, making it relatively soft. The mineral exhibits a pearly to vitreous luster and has a specific gravity of approximately 3.1.
-=== Health and Safety ===
+==Occurrence==
-Erythrite contains arsenic, which is a toxic element. Therefore, it is important to handle erythrite specimens with caution and avoid inhaling or ingesting its dust or fragments. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly after handling erythrite and to store it in a secure location away from children and pets.
+Erythrite is commonly found in the oxidized zones of cobalt and nickel deposits. It is often associated with other secondary minerals such as [[annabergite]], [[scorodite]], and [[cobaltite]]. Notable localities include the [[Bou Azzer District]] in Morocco, the [[Cobalt District]] in Ontario, Canada, and the [[Blackbird Mine]] in Idaho, USA.
-== See Also ==
+==Uses==
-* [[Cobalt]]
+While erythrite itself is not a major ore of cobalt, it serves as an important indicator mineral for the presence of cobalt deposits. Its vibrant color also makes it a popular specimen among mineral collectors.
-* [[Mineral Collecting]]
-* [[Arsenate Minerals]]
-== References ==
+==Gallery==
-<references />
+[[File:Erythrite-176702.jpg|thumb|right|Erythrite specimen showing its characteristic pink color.]]
+==Related pages==
+* [[Cobaltite]]
+* [[Annabergite]]
+* [[Scorodite]]
+* [[Mineral collecting]]
-[[Category:Minerals]]
 [[Category:Arsenate minerals]]
+[[Category:Cobalt minerals]]
+[[Category:Monoclinic minerals]]