ARQUERITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Arquerite refers to a yellowish or reddish-brown secondary mineral that belongs to the phosphate class of compounds. It is typically found in oxidized uranium deposits. The name "arquerite" is derived from the Latin word "arcus," which means bow, due to its occurrence as slender bow-like crystals.
Chemically, arquerite is classified as a uranyl phosphate hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula Cu2(UO2)(PO4)2(OH)•7H2O. It typically forms in oxidized zones of uranium deposits, where it arises as a secondary alteration product of primary uranium-bearing minerals. It usually occurs in association with other minerals, such as malachite and autunite.
Arquerite possesses a characteristic fibrous or acicular crystal habit with a silky or fibrous luster. It commonly displays a yellowish to reddish-brown coloration and exhibits an orthorhombic crystal structure. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is typically around 3.5 to 4, which indicates a relatively low hardness.
Due to its association with uranium deposits, arquerite has garnered some attention in the field of mineralogy and mining. However, it is primarily regarded as a rare and relatively unremarkable mineral of interest primarily to collectors and researchers in the field. Its distinctive crystal habit and occurrence in uranium deposits make it a valuable addition to mineral collections and geological studies.
-
A native silver amalgam, occurring in crystals and arborescent crusts in the mines of Arqueros, near Coquimbo, in Chili.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ARQUERITE
- zrquerite
- srquerite
- wrquerite
- qrquerite
- aequerite
- adquerite
- afquerite
- atquerite
- a5querite
- a4querite
- ar1uerite
- ar2uerite
- arwuerite
- arauerite
- arqyerite
- arqherite
- arqjerite
- arqierite
- arq8erite
- arq7erite
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
