GUARINOITE Meaning and
Definition
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Guarinoite is a mineral that belongs to the selenide mineral group. It was discovered in 1981 and was named after the Italian mineralogist Mauro Guarino. This rare mineral is classified as a sulfosalt, which means it is composed of both sulfur and a metallic element combined with arsenic or antimony.
The physical characteristics of guarinoite include a metallic luster and a grayish-black to lead-gray color. It has a hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft. Guarinoite forms in a monoclinic crystal system and often occurs as prismatic or acicular (needle-like) crystals. It is opaque and has a black streak.
Chemically, guarinoite is composed of a combination of lead, copper, and antimony. Its chemical formula is PbCuBi3S6, indicating the presence of lead (Pb), copper (Cu), bismuth (Bi), and sulfur (S). These elements combine to form a complex structure, resulting in the unique properties of guarinoite.
In terms of its occurrence, guarinoite is considered a rare mineral. It is typically found in hydrothermal deposits associated with other sulfide and telluride minerals. Guarinoite is most commonly discovered in its type locality, the Apex mine in Utah, USA. However, it has also been reported from a few other locations around the world, including Kazakhstan, Italy, and Japan.
Overall, guarinoite is a fascinating mineral with unique physical and chemical properties. Its rarity, distinctive crystal habit, and association with other valuable sulfide minerals make it of interest to mineral collectors and researchers.
Etymology of GUARINOITE
The word "guarinoite" is derived from the name of the Italian mineralogist and geologist, Giovanni Antonio Aloysio da Ubaldo Guarinoni. Born in 1814, Guarinoni made important contributions to the study of minerals and rocks in the 19th century. As a way to honor his contributions to the field of geology, the mineral "guarinoite" was named after him. As per the International Mineralogical Association's rules, when a new mineral is discovered, it is typically named after a scientist who has significantly contributed to the field.
