ZINKENITE Meaning and
Definition
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Zinkenite is a mineral that belongs to the sulfide group and is primarily composed of antimony, lead, and sulfur. It is known for its characteristic metallic luster, typically appearing silver-gray to black in color. The name "zinkenite" is believed to have originated from the German word "zinken," which means "to intersect," referring to its common occurrence in veins that intersect other minerals.
Zinkenite has a high density and a Mohs hardness ranging between 2.5 and 3. It exhibits a distinct orthorhombic crystal structure, which gives it its unique appearance. The mineral is often found in compact, fibrous, or granular masses, occasionally forming elongated prismatic crystals.
This mineral is most commonly found in hydrothermal veins associated with other sulfides and minerals such as stibnite, galena, and pyrite. It is also known to occur in polymetallic ore deposits. Zinkenite is primarily mined as a minor source of antimony, which is an important element in various industrial applications.
In terms of its properties, zinkenite is insoluble in water and does not have any significant industrial use on its own. However, due to its association with valuable minerals, it plays a role in certain mining operations and geological studies. With its unique crystalline structure and metallic luster, zinkenite often holds interest for mineral collectors and enthusiasts as a specimen of scientific significance.
Common Misspellings for ZINKENITE
- xinkenite
- sinkenite
- ainkenite
- zunkenite
- zjnkenite
- zknkenite
- zonkenite
- z9nkenite
- z8nkenite
- zibkenite
- zimkenite
- zijkenite
- zihkenite
- zinjenite
- zinmenite
- zinlenite
- zinoenite
- zinienite
- zinkwnite
Etymology of ZINKENITE
The word "zinkenite" originates from the German term "Zinkenit", which was first used in 1845 by mineralogist Friedrich Mohs. The German word is derived from the root word "Zinke", meaning "prong" or "point", referring to the pointed crystal form typically observed in this mineral. The suffix "-ite" is a common mineralogical ending used to denote minerals.
Similar spelling words for ZINKENITE
