Covelline

/ˈkɒvəlɪn/ noun

Definition

A rare mineral form of copper sulfide that is typically blue or black and found in copper ore deposits.

Etymology

Named after Italian naturalist Michele Covelli (1811-1874) who discovered it in volcanic rocks near Mount Vesuvius; the suffix -ine indicates it is a mineral named after a person.

Kelly Says

Covelline is one of the few minerals whose color—a brilliant indigo blue—actually comes from its crystal structure scattering light, not from impurities like most colored minerals do.

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