CUPRITE

Cuprite is a mineral characterized by its composition of copper(I) oxide, represented as Cu2O, and serves as a minor source of copper. The mineral exhibits dark crystals that reflect red hues, belonging to the isometric system's hexoctahedral class, and can manifest in cubic, octahedral, or dodecahedral shapes, often appearing as penetration twins. Despite its appealing color, cuprite is seldom utilized in jewelry due to its relatively low Mohs hardness, ranging from 3.5 to 4. It possesses a high specific gravity of 6.1, exhibits imperfect cleavage, and is brittle with a conchoidal fracture. The mineral's luster varies from sub-metallic to brilliant adamantine, while the chalcotrichite variety is noted for its elongated, needle-like crystal formations. Cuprite typically forms in the oxidized zones of copper sulfide deposits and is often found alongside minerals such as native copper, azurite, chrysocolla, malachite, tenorite, and various iron oxides. Known as ruby copper for its striking red color, cuprite was first described by Wilhelm Karl Ritter von Haidinger in 1845, with its name derived from the Latin term for copper, "cuprum." This mineral is located in regions such as the Ural and Altai Mountains, Sardinia, and more isolated areas in Cornwall, France, Arizona, Chile, Bolivia, and Namibia.

Former John Betts Collection NY #11017