Chalcopyrite is popular due to its unique and unusual color. There are several types of coloring, and each has found its application in jewelry.
Description
Chalcopyrite has a golden yellow color, so it looks like gold. In another way, it is often called copper pyrite. There are many interesting facts about the mineral, and some physical properties distinguish it from gold. In addition to the fact that the stone is very beautiful, it is also affordable.
In some countries it is known as malachite, in others - as “peacock ore”. One of the species really shimmers with different colors, which is very similar to a rainbow. Chalcopyrite is most commonly known as a brass yellow mineral with a chemical composition of CuFeS 2. It is formed in most sulfide deposits around the world. The stone began to be mined more than a thousand years ago, and then they began to use it as a decoration, a talisman and an additional assistant in the treatment of certain diseases.
When weathering, the surface of chalcopyrite loses its metallic luster and brass yellow color.
It grows dull, becomes gray-green, but in the presence of acids it can begin to overflow with different colors. It is the iridescent shades of aged chalcopyrite that attract the attention of jewelers. Some gift shops sell minerals that have been specially treated with acid.
Physicochemical properties
Chalcopyrite is a mineral that is a copper sulfide. The color may be dark brown, sometimes even black.The crystals resemble the tetrahedron and octahedron, but they are slightly asymmetric and therefore are classified in the tetragonal system.
According to the physical characteristics, the mass fraction of iron and copper may vary, depending on the deposit. It is a completely opaque stone, with a density of 4.1 to 4.3, and if a crack appears on the surface, it is uneven. The stone is brittle, so the Mohs hardness is only 3-4, which is why chalcopyrite is classified as brittle minerals.
The stone is in the group of simple sulfides. The mineral has a unique composition, therefore it burns, this property is embedded even in the name, since “pyros” in translation means “fire”. Finding a mineral is real in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. You can distinguish from gold by conducting a small test. Gold is soft, gives a yellow streak and has a much higher specific gravity. Chalcopyrite is fragile, leaves a black stripe. Complex semiconductors are part of the chalcopyrite family and are located in the middle of the ternary system.
Major deposits
Chalcopyrite is formed under various conditions. Some of them are primary, then the stone crystallizes from melts of related minerals in igneous rocks. Some forms of magmatic segregation are found in stratified rocks, while others are found in pegmatite and contact metamorphic rocks. It is known that many volcanic massive sulfide deposits contain chalcopyrite.
The most significant mineral deposits are hydrothermal in origin. Associated ore minerals include pyrite, sphalerite, bornite and chalcocytes. Chalcopyrite serves as a source of copper for many secondary mineral deposits. Copper is extracted from it in the process of weathering.
Chalcopyrite is a fairly common mineral. The largest deposits are in England, Romania. Large crystals are found in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. The Dreislar Mine, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is producing small specimens. In China, large crystals are found in Hunan.
The mineral is also mined in the Sverdlovsk region, in Russia. Many exact chalcopyrite crystals are found in Mexico: Zacatecas, Concepcion del Oro and San Martin. The mine at Cerro de Pasco in Peru also deserves attention.
In the USA, mining is carried out in three states:
- Kansas;
- Oklahoma;
- Missouri.
Large crystals were found in Pennsylvania that were highly praised by collectors.
Application
In industry, chalcopyrite is used as copper ore. This method has existed for more than five thousand years. Some types of ore contain a significant amount of zinc, replacing iron, others - silver or gold. In addition, the mineral has a special magical significance; special properties are attributed to it in the methods of alternative medicine. The stone has no economic use.
Chalcopyrite is also known as the mystic stone, because it can open the crown chakra and channels for the flow of information.
This crystal helps meditation, improves perception. Chalcopyrite develops and strengthens the inner vision.
It can be used by people who have problems with the respiratory system. It can also help reduce inflammation and fever, it is a good doctor in the fight against infectious diseases, including pulmonary, throat, bronchial.
This crystal, according to some followers of alternative medicine, is able to improve hair growth, especially if combined with rhodochrositis. It favorably affects pressure. The stone can free the body of toxins, it also has the ability to protect against the side effects of lengthy medical procedures. Of the other therapeutic properties of chalcopyrite, the following can be distinguished:
- positive effect on inflammatory processes in the body;
- has an antimicrobial effect;
- activates the digestive system;
- improves metabolism, respectively, can be worn by people who want to lose weight;
- favorably affects the appetite;
- can be used as an additional assistant in resolving issues of skin diseases;
- It has a positive effect on the sleep and psyche of a person, so it should be worn with constant nervous tension.
Like most stones and crystals of a golden hue, chalcopyrite is a mineral of plenty. It draws wealth and abundance into life, which is why the talismans with it bring good luck. Chalcopyrite resonates strongly with the solar plexus chakra, which is also known as energy.
It will help to attract money and return everything that a person has lost.
Chalcopyrite is a gem that can enhance the owner's ability to succeed in business. It is often used as an amulet, which allows you to maximize profits. This stone favors merchants, helps to establish communication and acquire the necessary communication skills. Chalcopyrite is also called copper pyrite, it contains the energy of pyrite and copper, therefore it symbolizes fire and love.
Chalcopyrite is useful for fixing “standing” energy. It is good to use it when it is necessary to overcome the decline of luck. The mineral will help to solve problems, strengthen weak energy. Stone amulets are used as a means of protection against evil spirits. They feel negative energy well and help to avoid its negative influence. This gem leads its owner in the right direction.
How to distinguish from pyrite?
People who do not have a geological formation do not see differences between pyrite and chalcopyrite. It seems to them that there is no difference, since untreated minerals are very similar in appearance. However, there are certain diagnostic signs.
Since pyrite is quite hard, it cannot be scratched with a nail, but chalcopyrite can be damaged very much.
The name "gold of fools" is associated with pyrite, because it is most often found. Chalcopyrite is also confused with a precious metal, but it can emit sulfur when reacted with an acid. The chemical composition of pyrite is FeS 2, chalcopyrite is CuFeS 2. Pyrite does not contain copper, but it is in the second mineral.
Who is it for?
Chalcopyrite is suitable for all signs of the zodiac, and he is ready to provide certain privileges to each representative.
- Astrologers claim that chalcopyrite has a positive effect on relationships, so it is recommended to wear it Arieswho want to find a soul mate or are ready to start a family.
- Mineral promises good luck in business and assistance in work Taurus signs more mundane. It must be worn by those who seek to acquire their own housing.
- Modest and shy Twins Chalcopyrite will help to find a new circle of communication, moreover, wearing a mineral has a positive effect on health, helps reduce allergic reactions.
- For health, it is advised to wear chalcopyrite and Cancer, because it quickly copes with inflammation, destroys harmful microorganisms.
- Despite her hot temper, Lions they have an insecure nature, although they are inclined by all means to hide it from others. The mineral can become an assistant in this matter, will give confidence, will allow you to implement the planned tasks.
- Virgo wearing a stone promises harmony in the family and good health, Weights he will give confidence, however, like the Scorpions, who are notable for their inconsistency, and therefore often change plans.
- Sagittarius prone to making many mistakes in life, the mineral helps to avoid them, put on the right track, improve nervous state, sleep.
- If Capricorn faced with a difficult situation for itself, then chalcopyrite gives the necessary amount of strength to cope with it.Wearing an amulet from this mineral allows Aquarius to reevaluate their own life and make it more understandable, first of all, for themselves.
- Affected Disease Pisces Chalcopyrite must always be carried with you, as it strengthens the immune system and helps to improve overall health.
Read more about chalcopyrite in the next video.
