KUTNOHORITE Meaning and
Definition
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Kutnohorite is a mineral that belongs to the carbonate group, specifically to the dolomite subgroup. It is named after the town of Kutná Hora in the Czech Republic, where the mineral was first discovered. Kutnohorite is often found in hydrothermal veins associated with other carbonate minerals and is commonly formed as a secondary mineral in oxidized manganese deposits.
In terms of its physical properties, kutnohorite typically occurs as rhombohedral or scalenohedral crystals, although it can also be found as fine-grained masses or as a botryoidal crust. Its color ranges from pale pink to pinkish gray, and it has a vitreous to pearly luster. The hardness of kutnohorite falls between 3.5 and 4 on the Mohs scale, and its density ranges from 3.21 to 3.28 g/cm^3.
Chemically, kutnohorite is a calcium manganese carbonate with the chemical formula CaMn(CO3)2. It is composed of calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), carbon (C), and oxygen (O) atoms in a specific arrangement. This mineral is mainly formed through the replacement of primary manganese minerals by calcium carbonates in the presence of hydrothermal fluids.
Kutnohorite is not a widely recognized gemstone or a mineral of economic significance; however, it is sought after by collectors due to its unique crystal formations and attractive pink colors. Its occurrence is relatively limited, and it can be found in various locations around the world, including the Czech Republic, Germany, Sweden, Russia, the United States, and South Africa.
Etymology of KUTNOHORITE
The word "kutnohorite" has its etymology in the Czech language. It is derived from the name of the town Kutná Hora, located in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. The mineral kutnohorite was first discovered in the vicinity of Kutná Hora, and it was named after the town.
