GUDMUNDITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Gudmundite is a mineral that belongs to the pyrite group with a chemical formula of FeS2. It is named after the Swedish mineralogist Axel Erdmann Friedrich Gudmundsson. Gudmundite is a relatively rare mineral that is commonly found in hydrothermal ore deposits, particularly those related to nickel-copper sulfide deposits. It often occurs alongside other minerals such as pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite.
Physically, gudmundite typically appears in the form of fine-grained, opaque, metallic crystals with a brass-yellow to bronze color. It has a Mohs hardness of 4 to 4.5, indicating its moderate hardness. Gudmundite has an isometric crystal system and belongs to the Fm3m space group.
In terms of its properties, gudmundite is primarily known for its high sulfur content. It is a polymorph of the more common mineral pyrite, meaning it has the same chemical composition but possesses a different crystal structure. Gudmundite can exhibit weak magnetic properties due to the presence of iron.
While gudmundite itself does not hold significant economic value, its association with other valuable minerals in ore deposits makes it an important indicator mineral in mineral exploration. Its occurrence and distribution can provide valuable insights into the geological processes responsible for the formation of ore deposits and assist in their exploitation and extraction.
Etymology of GUDMUNDITE
The word "gudmundite" is derived from the name "Gudmund", which is of Old Norse origin. "Gudmund" is composed of two elements: "gud" meaning "god" and "mund" meaning "protection". Therefore, "Gudmund" can be translated as "God's protection". The suffix "-ite" typically denotes a mineral, so "gudmundite" refers to a mineral named after Gudmund or in association with Gudmund.
