NICKELLOTHARMEYERITE Meaning and
Definition
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Nickellotharmeyerite is a complex mineral that belongs to the thallium sulfosalt family. It is primarily composed of thallium, nickel, and arsenic, along with traces of other elements such as sulfur. The mineral typically occurs in hydrothermal veins and is usually found in association with other minerals like realgar and orpiment.
In terms of physical characteristics, nickellotharmeyerite forms as opaque, metallic silver-gray crystals with a high metallic luster. It typically exhibits a monoclinic crystal structure, which produces distinct cleavage planes. The mineral has a relatively high density and hardness, making it quite durable.
From a chemical perspective, nickellotharmeyerite contains a unique combination of thallium, nickel, and arsenic, resulting in its distinctive composition. The mineral's chemical formula is often expressed as (Tl,Ni)As3, emphasizing the intergrowth of thallium and nickel atoms in the crystalline structure. This composition gives nickellotharmeyerite its characteristic properties and distinguishes it from other minerals in the sulfosalt group.
Due to its relative rarity and limited applications, nickellotharmeyerite is primarily valued by mineral collectors and researchers studying the properties and formation of sulfosalts. Its intricate crystal structure and unique chemical composition make it an intriguing specimen for scientific investigation, allowing scientists to gather valuable insights into the geology and mineralogy of hydrothermal environments.
Etymology of NICKELLOTHARMEYERITE
The word "nickellotharmeyerite" is a mineral name that combines several elements of its chemical composition.
The term "nickel" refers to the element nickel (Ni), which is present in this mineral.
"Lotharmeyerite" is a mineral originally named after Lothar Meyer (1830-1895), a German chemist who made significant contributions to the periodic table of elements.
Thus, "nickellotharmeyerite" is a combination of these two terms to describe a mineral containing nickel and bearing similarities to the original mineral named after Meyer.
