Chalcanth

/ˈkælkænθ/ noun

Definition

An archaic or historical term for copper sulfate, a blue-green crystalline mineral used historically in dyeing, medicine, and metalworking.

Etymology

From Greek 'chalkos' (copper) + 'anthos' (flower, possibly referring to its crystalline appearance). Used in medieval and Renaissance texts.

Kelly Says

Chalcanth was called the 'flower' of copper because of its beautiful blue crystalline structure—ancient metalworkers didn't realize they were using copper sulfate as a byproduct, but it became essential to their craft!

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