BIEHLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Biehlite is a mineral that belongs to the tellurite group, which comprises a small but distinct group of minerals containing oxygen and tellurium. It is named after Roland P. Biehl, an American geologist and researcher who made significant contributions to the study of tellurite minerals. Biehlite is characterized by its unique crystal structure and chemical composition.
Chemically, biehlite is a tellurite compound, specifically a lead tellurate, with the chemical formula PbTeO₄. It typically forms as tiny, colorless to pale yellow or greenish-yellow crystals. Biehlite is relatively rare and is often found as crusts or coatings in association with other tellurite minerals, such as poughite and tellurite minerals.
In terms of its properties, biehlite is known for its brittle nature and its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, usually ranging between 2.5 and 3. It has a density of approximately 6.8 grams per cubic centimeter. Biehlite is also considered to be highly soluble in water.
Due to its limited occurrence and relatively unremarkable physical properties, biehlite is primarily of interest to mineral collectors, researchers, and geologists studying the unique formations and associations of tellurite minerals. Its discovery can shed light on the geological conditions in which it forms and provides valuable insights into the chemical composition and crystal structures of different minerals.
