Aerugite

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Aerugite
General
CategoryArsenate minerals
Formula
(repeating unit)
Ni9(AsO4)2AsO6
Strunz classification8.BC.15
Crystal systemTrigonal
Crystal classHexagonal scalenohedral (3m)
H-M symbol: (3 2/m)
Space groupR3m
Identification
ColorGrass green, blue-green
Crystal habitMassive to crystalline crusts
Mohs scale hardness4
LusterAdamantine
Streaklight green, greenish white
DiaphaneityOpaque to semitransparent
Specific gravity5.85 - 5.95
References[1][2][3]

Aerugite is a rare complex nickel arsenate mineral with a variably reported formula: Ni9(AsO4)2AsO6. It forms green to deep blue-green trigonal crystals. It has a Mohs hardness of 4 and a specific gravity of 5.85 to 5.95.

It was first described in 1858 in either the South Terres mine of Cornwall, England or in Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany. The origin is disputed. The most common occurrence is as an incrustation on furnace walls in which ores are roasted. Its name comes from the Latin word aerugo for copper rust.

References