CUPROMAKOVICKYITE Meaning and
Definition
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Cupromakovickyite is a rare and complex mineral that falls under the category of copper arsenates. It is named after its chemical composition, which consists of copper (Cu), arsenic (As), and oxygen (O). This mineral belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and has a specific gravity of approximately 5.74. Cupromakovickyite is typically found in small, prismatic crystals which are often thin and elongated.
The color of cupromakovickyite can vary between shades of green, bluish-green, or green-black. Some transparent specimens have also been found. This mineral exhibits a vitreous or glass-like luster, and its streak is light green. Cupromakovickyite has a hardness of around 3.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft compared to other minerals.
In terms of its occurrence, cupromakovickyite is an uncommon mineral. It is typically found in oxidized copper deposits rich in arsenic. These deposits can be found in various parts of the world, including the Czech Republic, Germany, Kazakhstan, and the United States.
Cupromakovickyite is not a well-known mineral to the general public, but it is of interest to mineral collectors and researchers due to its unique crystal structure and composition. Its rarity and attractive color make it a sought-after specimen for collectors. Additionally, studying cupromakovickyite can provide insights into the geological conditions that formed copper deposits and the role of arsenic in these processes.
Etymology of CUPROMAKOVICKYITE
The word "cupromakovickyite" is a mineral name and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Cupro-: This prefix is derived from the Latin word "cuprum", meaning copper. It is often used as a prefix to indicate the presence or association of copper in a particular compound or mineral.
2. Makovickyite: This part of the word is the actual mineral name and is derived from the name of the mineralogist Dr. Emil Makovicky (born in 1941). He is a Slovak-born researcher who has made significant contributions to the fields of crystallography and mineralogy.
Therefore, "cupromakovickyite" is a mineral name that indicates the presence of copper and pays tribute to Dr. Emil Makovicky for his contributions to the study of minerals.
