ISOCUBANITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Isocubanite is a mineral that is primarily composed of copper, iron, and sulfur, with the chemical formula CuFeS2. It belongs to the pyrite group and is categorized as a sulfide mineral. Isocubanite crystallizes in the orthorhombic system, typically forming well-formed crystals with a metallic luster. It is often found as elongated grains or as striated masses.
Isocubanite derives its name from its close resemblance to the mineral cubanite and its isomorphous relationship with it. It is a copper-iron sulfide mineral that occurs as a common primary mineral in hydrothermal deposits. It is commonly associated with other minerals such as pyrrhotite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, bornite, and marcasite.
The physical characteristics of isocubanite include a hardness ranging from 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, and a specific gravity of approximately 4.6. Its color can vary from brass-yellow to grayish black, often exhibiting a metallic luster. Isocubanite has poor cleavage and breaks with an uneven or sub-conchoidal fracture.
Isocubanite has limited economic significance, with its main use being as an ore of copper and iron. It is sought after as a collector's mineral due to its unique crystal habit and association with other sulfide minerals. Its occurrence is relatively rare, primarily found in copper and iron ore deposits in various parts of the world, including Cuba, Canada, Australia, Russia, and the United States.
Etymology of ISOCUBANITE
The word "isocubanite" is derived from its chemical composition and crystal structure. It is composed of the prefix "iso-" indicating that it is structurally isometric, meaning it crystallizes in the cubic crystal system. The second part of the word, "cubanite", refers to the mineral from which it was first named.
The term "cubanite" was coined by the German mineralogist August Breithaupt in 1857 after discovering the mineral in Cuba. The name "Cuba" was incorporated into its designation due to its original source. Therefore, "isocubanite" is a modification of "cubanite" to indicate its isometric crystal structure.
