JOLIOTITE Meaning and
Definition
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Joliotite is a rare and unique mineral that is categorized as a sulfide of thallium and lead. It is known for its distinctive black or grayish-black color and metallic luster. This mineral is a member of the galena group and belongs to the isometric crystal system. Joliotite is typically found in hydrothermal veins and deposits associated with lead-zinc mineralization.
The chemical formula of joliotite is Tl(Pb,Sb)₂S₅, where Tl represents thallium and Pb stands for lead. It has a moderate to high density, ranging from 6.9 to 7.5 grams per cubic centimeter. Joliotite possesses an average hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, indicating low resistance to scratching.
Joliotite exhibits a characteristic dark color due to its high content of lead and antimony. It often forms opaque, cubic or octahedral crystals, which can be quite small in size and display well-developed cleavage surfaces. However, it is more commonly found as granular or massive aggregates.
Due to its scarcity and limited occurrence, joliotite holds little significance as an industrial resource. It is primarily sought after by collectors and mineral enthusiasts due to its unique composition and aesthetic appeal. The name "joliotite" is derived from the French physicist Frédéric Joliot-Curie (1900-1958), who made significant contributions to the field of radiochemistry and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1935.
