Camérolaite
Camérolaite is a rare copper aluminum hydroxide sulfate mineral with the chemical formula Cu6Al3(OH)18(H2O)2[Sb(OH)6](SO4). It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 7.DE.75 and the Dana system as 44.3.11.1. This mineral is typically found in a green to greenish-yellow color and exhibits a dull to earthy luster. It has a relatively low hardness and is not commonly used in industrial or ornamental applications due to its rarity and softness. Camérolaite is part of the hydroxide mineral group, characterized by its complex hydroxyl and water content.
Overview
Camérolaite is a rare copper aluminum hydroxide sulfate mineral with the chemical formula Cu6Al3(OH)18(H2O)2[Sb(OH)6](SO4). It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is classified under the Strunz system as 7.DE.75 and the Dana system as 44.3.11.1. This mineral is typically found in a green to greenish-yellow color and exhibits a dull to earthy luster. It has a relatively low hardness and is not commonly used in industrial or ornamental applications due to its rarity and softness. Camérolaite is part of the hydroxide mineral group, characterized by its complex hydroxyl and water content.
How to recognize it
Camérolaite can be identified by its green to greenish-yellow color and earthy luster. It has a low hardness on the Mohs scale, making it easily scratched by a copper coin or a knife. The mineral does not have a distinct streak and is typically found in a fine-grained form, which makes it difficult to distinguish from other soft hydroxide minerals. Its identification is often confirmed through chemical analysis due to its complex composition.