Nickeline, also known as niccolite, is a mineral that consists of nickel and arsenic. The spelling of this word is pronounced "nik-uh-leen" and is phonetically transcribed as /ˈnɪkəliːn/. The word "Nickel" is derived from the German word "kupfernickel," which translates to "devil's copper," due to the fact that miners believed it was difficult to extract copper from this ore. Nickeline has a distinct silver-grey metallic luster and can sometimes be used in jewelry-making processes.
Nickeline, also known as niccolite, is a mineral composed of nickel arsenide (NiAs), with small amounts of iron. It is categorized as a sulfarsenide, belonging to the pyrite group of minerals. Nickeline is named after its nickel content and has a characteristic silver-white color with a reddish tarnish. It has a metallic luster and occurs in hexagonal crystals, as well as massive/granular or as an inclusion within other minerals.
Nickeline is primarily found in hydrothermal veins associated with nickel-copper ores. It is commonly found in regions rich in nickel deposits, such as Canada, Russia, Norway, and Germany. In addition to its occurrence in hydrothermal veins, it can also be found in skarns and pegmatites.
This mineral is an essential source of nickel, which is widely used in various industrial and commercial applications. Its unique properties make it an important component in the production of stainless steel, batteries, magnets, and electroplating materials. Due to its high nickel content, nickeline has attracted considerable interest as a potential source of nickel for commercial purposes.
Despite its economic significance, nickeline is not considered as a common mineral. It is often sought after by mineral collectors due to its distinct coloration and metallic appearance. However, it should be handled with caution, as it contains arsenic, which can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
One of the chief ores of nickel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "nickeline" has its etymology rooted in the element nickel, from which it is derived. The term takes its name from the Swedish word "kupfernickel", which translates to "copper-colored nickel". This name was given to the mineral by Swedish chemist Axel Fredrik Cronstedt in 1751 due to its similar appearance to copper ore. The word "nickeline" eventually became the accepted term for this mineral, which is also known as niccolite.