CORNUBITE Meaning and
Definition
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Cornubite is a rare mineral that belongs to the sulfate mineral group, specifically in the jarosite subgroup. It is primarily composed of iron, with other chemical elements such as copper, sulfur, oxygen, and water also present. The mineral typically forms as a result of the oxidation of copper-iron sulfide deposits.
Cornubite is characterized by its distinctive greenish-blue to bluish-green color, with shades ranging from pale to dark. Its crystal structure is monoclinic, and it typically exhibits a fibrous or granular texture. The mineral is known for its high birefringence, which causes light passing through it to split into two rays, resulting in a pleochroic effect where different colors can be observed from different angles.
This mineral has been primarily found in the famous Cornwall region in southwestern England, from where it acquired its name. Nevertheless, it has also been discovered in other copper-bearing ore deposits around the world, including in Australia, Germany, Chile, and the United States.
Due to its relatively limited occurrence and small crystal size, cornubite is mainly of interest to mineral collectors and researchers. Its unique color and optical properties make it an appealing addition to mineral collections. Additionally, its presence in specific geological formations can offer insights into the conditions under which it formed and the history of mineralization in the area.
Etymology of CORNUBITE
The word "cornubite" is derived from the Cornish region of Cornwall in southwestern England. The suffix "-ite" indicates that it is a mineral name. Cornubite is actually a rare secondary copper mineral found in oxidized copper ore deposits in Cornwall, hence its association with the region's name.
