TALNAKHITE Meaning and
Definition
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Talnakhite is a mineral that belongs to the sulfide group of minerals, specifically to the galena group. It is a relatively rare mineral which was first discovered in the Talnakh deposit, Noril'sk, Siberia, Russia. The name "talnakhite" is derived from the location where it was first found, namely Talnakh.
Talnakhite possesses a metallic luster and typically forms in a massive or granular habit. It is composed primarily of lead (Pb) and antimony (Sb), with minor amounts of iron (Fe) and other trace elements. The chemical formula for talnakhite is (Cu,Fe,Pb,Ag)₁₁(Sb,As)₃S₁₀. It has a moderate to high density and is generally opaque, appearing in shades of gray to silver.
Geologically, talnakhite is commonly associated with other sulfide minerals, such as chalcopyrite and galena, in ore deposits that are rich in copper, nickel, and platinum group elements (PGEs). These deposits are often found in ultramafic and mafic igneous rocks. Talnakhite serves as a valuable indicator mineral for the presence of nickel and copper ores within such rock formations.
Due to its scarcity and limited commercial use, talnakhite is primarily appreciated by mineral collectors and researchers. Its distinct properties and association with important ore-bearing formations make it particularly interesting for geological studies aimed at understanding ore formation processes and the exploration of new mineral deposits.
Etymology of TALNAKHITE
The word "talnakhite" is derived from the name of the Talnakh area in Russia, specifically the Talnakh ore deposit. Talnakh is located in the Norilsk Mining Centre, one of the world's largest mining regions for nickel, copper, and palladium. The mineral talnakhite is named after this region as it was discovered and first described there.
