Cuprite

Cu2O

This specimen of Cuprite displays a vibrant orange to red color, appearing somewhat massive or granular. A pen is included for scale, indicating a moderately sized sample.

Cuprite Physical Properties

Mohs Hardness

3.5

Crystal System

cubic

Luster

adamantine

Streak Color

reddish brown

Cleavage

poor on {111}

Fracture

conchoidal

Specific Gravity

6.1

Colors

orange, red, brownish-red, black

Transparency

transparent

Type Locality

Tsumeb, Namibia

Mineral Group

Oxides

Uses

ore of copper, collector

Associated Minerals

native copper, azurite, malachite, chrysocolla

Rarity

uncommon

Geological Context

Cuprite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide deposits. It results from the alteration of primary copper minerals in the presence of oxygen and water.

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Related Specimens

Jamesonite

Gold

Jade

Epistilbite

Azurite

Diamond