Dufrénoysite
Dufrénoysite is a sulfosalt mineral with the chemical formula lead arsenic sulfide, Pb2As2S5. It belongs to the Strunz classification 2.HC.05d and crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. This mineral is typically metallic in luster, with a lead-gray to dark gray color. It has a relatively low hardness of approximately 2.5 on the Mohs scale and a high density due to its lead content. Dufrénoysite is part of the sulfosalt mineral group, which includes compounds with complex structures combining sulfur with metals and metalloids.
Composition
- PbLead57.2%
- SSulfur22.1%
- AsArsenic20.7%
Overview
Dufrénoysite is a sulfosalt mineral with the chemical formula lead arsenic sulfide, Pb2As2S5. It belongs to the Strunz classification 2.HC.05d and crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. This mineral is typically metallic in luster, with a lead-gray to dark gray color. It has a relatively low hardness of approximately 2.5 on the Mohs scale and a high density due to its lead content. Dufrénoysite is part of the sulfosalt mineral group, which includes compounds with complex structures combining sulfur with metals and metalloids.
Etymology
Dufrénoysite is named after Ours-Pierre-Armand Petit-Dufrénoy, a French mineralogist. The mineral was recognized and named in his honor.
How to recognize it
Dufrénoysite can be identified by its metallic luster, lead-gray to dark gray color, and low hardness of about 2.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a high density, which can be a distinguishing feature. The streak is typically dark gray. Due to its softness and metallic appearance, it may be confused with other sulfide minerals, but its specific gravity and chemical composition help in differentiation.