Watanabeite
Watanabeite is a sulfosalt mineral with the chemical formula Cu4(As,Sb)2S5, composed of copper, arsenic, antimony, and sulfur. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is classified under the sulfosalt group. This mineral is typically metallic in luster and exhibits a dark red to black color. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is not explicitly stated, but it is relatively soft for a sulfosalt. Watanabeite has a moderate density and is known for its distinctive chemical composition, which includes both arsenic and antimony. It is a rare mineral, often found in association with other sulfide and sulfosalt minerals.
Composition
- CuCopper45.0%
- SSulfur28.4%
- AsArsenic26.5%
Overview
Watanabeite is a sulfosalt mineral with the chemical formula Cu4(As,Sb)2S5, composed of copper, arsenic, antimony, and sulfur. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is classified under the sulfosalt group. This mineral is typically metallic in luster and exhibits a dark red to black color. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is not explicitly stated, but it is relatively soft for a sulfosalt. Watanabeite has a moderate density and is known for its distinctive chemical composition, which includes both arsenic and antimony. It is a rare mineral, often found in association with other sulfide and sulfosalt minerals.
Etymology
Watanabeite is named after Takeo Watanabe, in recognition of his contributions to mineralogy. The IMA approved the name, but no specific discovery year is provided.
How to recognize it
Watanabeite can be identified by its metallic luster and dark red to black color. It is relatively soft for a sulfosalt, though its exact Mohs hardness is not specified. The mineral may be distinguished from similar sulfosalt species by its chemical composition, which includes both arsenic and antimony. A streak test may help in identification, though specific details are not provided. Due to its rarity and chemical complexity, it is often confused with other copper-antimony-arsenic sulfosalts.
Trivia
Watanabeite is notable for its unique combination of arsenic and antimony in its chemical formula, a rare feature among sulfosalts. It is named after Takeo Watanabe, a respected figure in mineralogy. The mineral's orthorhombic crystal system contributes to its distinct structural properties, making it of interest to mineralogists studying crystallography and chemical bonding.