WOLFACHITE Meaning and
Definition
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Wolfachite is a rare mineral belonging to the sulfate class and specifically categorized under the jarosite group. It is composed mainly of iron, aluminum, potassium, and sulfate ions, with chemical formula (Fe3+,Al)3(PO4,SO4)2(OH,H2O)6. This mineral was first discovered in the historic mining town of Wolfach, which lies in the Black Forest region of Germany.
Wolfachite typically occurs as botryoidal or reniform aggregates, forming rounded or elongated nodules within ore veins. Its crystal structure can be described as a framework of iron-oxygen octahedra and aluminum-oxygen tetrahedra, with sulfate ions occupying spaces between the octahedral layers. This structure gives rise to its distinctive botryoidal appearance.
The color of wolfachite ranges from yellowish-brown to tan, and it often exhibits a vitreous to silky luster on the surface. Although not widely distributed globally, it is commonly found associated with other secondary minerals that form in oxidized zones of sulfide-bearing ore deposits.
Despite its scarcity, wolfachite serves as a valuable source of iron and aluminum. Its presence can indicate the potential for economically important mineral deposits in certain geological environments. Due to its unusual botryoidal habit and attractive color, some specimens of wolfachite are highly prized by mineral collectors, contributing to its desirability and market value.
Common Misspellings for WOLFACHITE
- qolfachite
- aolfachite
- solfachite
- eolfachite
- 3olfachite
- 2olfachite
- wilfachite
- wklfachite
- wllfachite
- wplfachite
- w0lfachite
- w9lfachite
- wokfachite
- wopfachite
- woofachite
- woldachite
- wolcachite
- wolvachite
- wolgachite
- woltachite
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