PARAMELACONITE Meaning and
Definition
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Paramelaconite is a rare mineral that belongs to the oxide class and falls under the copper oxide group. It has a chemical formula of Cu4O(AsO4)2, indicating its composition which consists of copper (Cu), oxygen (O), and arsenic (As). This mineral typically occurs as small prismatic or acicular crystals that vary in color from dark green to black.
Paramelaconite derives its name from the Greek words "para" meaning beside or similar to, and "melaconite" referring to another copper oxide mineral. This naming convention reflects its close resemblance to melaconite, a mineral belonging to the same oxide group.
In terms of its physical properties, paramelaconite is known to exhibit an orthorhombic crystal system, meaning it possesses three mutually perpendicular axes of different lengths. It has a Mohs hardness of approximately 4.5-5, indicating moderate resistance to scratching. Paramelaconite typically forms as a secondary mineral in oxidized copper ore deposits, often occurring along with other copper minerals such as melaconite and malachite. It is commonly found in hydrothermal veins, as well as in association with other copper-bearing minerals in certain metamorphic and igneous rocks.
Due to its relatively scarce occurrence and limited applications, paramelaconite primarily serves as a mineral of scientific and collector interest. Its unique crystal structure and chemical composition make it a subject of study among geologists, mineralogists, and researchers in related fields.
Common Misspellings for PARAMELACONITE
- oaramelaconite
- laramelaconite
- 0aramelaconite
- pzramelaconite
- psramelaconite
- pwramelaconite
- pqramelaconite
- paeamelaconite
- padamelaconite
- pafamelaconite
- patamelaconite
- pa5amelaconite
- pa4amelaconite
- parzmelaconite
- parsmelaconite
- parwmelaconite
- parqmelaconite
- paranelaconite
- parakelaconite
- parajelaconite
Etymology of PARAMELACONITE
The word "paramelaconite" is derived from the combination of two words: "para" and "melaconite".
The term "para-" in this context is a prefix that means "beside" or "similar to".
"Melaconite" is a mineral name that refers to a black oxide of copper. It comes from the Greek words "melas" meaning "black" and "konis" meaning "powder" or "dust", which ultimately originates from the Proto-Indo-European root "*mel-", meaning "dirty" or "sooty".
So, when these two elements are combined, "paramelaconite" essentially means a substance or mineral that is similar to melaconite.
