A macro of a Bornite mineral sample, also known as Peacock Ore. — Photo: “Jonathan Zander (Digon3)" · CC BY-SA 3.0
Bornite
Also known as: Peacock ore, Purple copper ore.
An important copper-iron sulfide ore known as 'peacock ore' for its iridescent purple-blue tarnish.
Intro adapted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).
Bornite is an IMA-recognized mineral species in the sulfide class, with the chemical formula Cu₅FeS₄.
It crystallizes in the cubic crystal system (space group F23).
Key properties: Mohs hardness 3–3.25; specific gravity 5.06–5.08; typically brown or purple or blue; Pale grayish black streak; Metallic luster.
IMA symbol Bn, IMA status: approved, named in 1845.
in association with and disseminated in mafic igneous rocks, in contact metamorphic skarn deposits, in pegmatites, in medium- to high-temperature hydrothermal deposits, and in sedimentary cupriferous shales; stable below ∼200 ° C.
It is found associated with Chalcopyrite, pyrite, other copper and iron sulfides, garnet, calcite, wollastonite, quartz.
The mineral was named to honor Ignaz Edler von Born (1742–1791), distinguished Austrian mineralogist.
Collections: Metals & Native Elements, Collector Favorites.