TRADE NAME
Copper pyrite
MOLECULAR FORMULA
CuFeS2, Copper Iron Sulfide
SYNONYMS
Chalcopyrite, Copper pyrite
ABOUT
Chalcopyrite (or copper pyrite), looks like, and is easily confused with Pyrite (FeS2). Chalcopyrite is one of the minerals refered to as Fool's Gold because of its bright golden color. But real gold is a more buttery yellow and is ductile and malleable. As an ore of copper, the yield of chalcopyrite is rather low in terms of atoms per molecule. It is only 25%, compared to other copper minerals such as Chalcocite (Cu2S - 67%); Cuprite (Cu2O - 67%); Covellite (CuS - 50% or bornite Cu5FeS4 - 50%). However the large quantities and widespread distribution of chalcopyrite make it the leading source of copper. Chalcopyrite is a common mineral and is found in almost all sulfide deposits. Fine crystals of chalcopyrite have a unique character and can add to anyone's collection.
SHODHAN OR AYURVEDA PURIFICATION PROCESS
SUGGESTED READING