"Umangite" is a mineral that is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as "juːˈmæŋɡaɪt". The initial "u" is pronounced as "yu", while the "m" and "n" sounds are separated by a glottal stop. The "g" sound is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, and the "a" is pronounced as a short "a". The final syllable is pronounced as "ite", with the stress on the second syllable. This spelling is used to differentiate the mineral from other similarly named minerals in the same family.
Umangite is a rare mineral that belongs to the sulfide group. It is named after the locality in which it was first discovered, the Umango Mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Umangite has a chemical formula of Cu3Se2 and is composed of copper and selenium. It usually appears as small, metallic, and steel-gray or black crystals.
In terms of its physical properties, umangite has a high density and a hardness of around 2.5 on the Mohs scale. It is not soluble in water or any common acids. Umangite is known to have a complex crystal structure, being part of the orthorhombic system.
Umangite is often found as an inclusion in sulfide ores and frequently occurs alongside other minerals, such as chalcopyrite and bornite. Due to its limited occurrence and the challenges associated with extracting it, umangite is considered a relatively rare mineral.
From a geological perspective, umangite is of scientific interest because it represents a mineral species that is intermediate in composition between berzelianite (Cu2Se) and stannite (Cu2FeSnS4). This unique composition contributes to the understanding of the formation and evolution of the Earth's crust.
While umangite does not possess any significant economic value on its own, it is prized by mineral collectors and researchers due to its scarcity and aesthetic appeal. Its unique crystal structure and distinctive metallic luster make it a sought-after addition to mineral collections and a subject of scientific study.
The word "umangite" is derived from the mineral name "umangite", which in turn is named after the Umango River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The river is located in the copper belt region of Katanga province, where this mineral was first discovered and identified.