Botallackite

Botallackite

Botallackite crystal structure

Botallackite is a rare copper chloride mineral with the chemical formula Cu₂Cl(OH)₃. It is named after the Botallack Mine in Cornwall, England, where it was first discovered. Botallackite is part of the halide mineral group and is known for its distinctive green color and unique crystal structure.

Properties

Botallackite typically forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zones of copper deposits. It is often associated with other copper minerals such as atacamite, paratacamite, and malachite. The mineral crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system and is known for its tabular and platy crystal habit.

Physical Properties

• Color: Green
• Crystal system: Monoclinic
• Crystal habit: Tabular, platy
• Cleavage: Perfect on {001}
• Mohs scale hardness: 2.5 - 3
• Luster: Vitreous
• Streak: Pale green

Chemical Properties

Botallackite is composed primarily of copper, chlorine, and hydroxide ions. Its chemical formula is Cu₂Cl(OH)₃, indicating that it contains two copper atoms, one chlorine atom, and three hydroxide groups per formula unit.

Occurrence

Botallackite is typically found in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, where it forms as a secondary mineral. It is often associated with other copper chloride minerals such as atacamite and paratacamite. The mineral is relatively rare and is primarily found in a few localities around the world, including the original Botallack Mine in Cornwall, England.

Uses

Due to its rarity, botallackite is primarily of interest to mineral collectors and researchers studying copper mineralogy. It does not have significant industrial applications but is valued for its unique crystal structure and association with other copper minerals.

Related pages

• Atacamite
• Paratacamite
• Malachite
• Halide mineral