enargiteluzonite

Enargiteluzonite is a rare mineral belonging to the sulfosalt group. Its chemical formula is Cu5FeS4. It is closely related to the mineral enargite, Cu3AsS4, and the two can be difficult to distinguish without detailed analysis. Enargiteluzonite crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system. It typically forms in hydrothermal veins and associated with copper and iron sulfide deposits. Associated minerals often include other copper sulfides like chalcopyrite and bornite, as well as arsenopyrite and pyrite. The mineral is characterized by its metallic luster and a dark gray to black color. It has a Mohs hardness of approximately 3. Enargiteluzonite is not a common ore mineral, but its presence can be an indicator of specific hydrothermal environments. The distinction between enargiteluzonite and enargite can be important for understanding the mineralizing processes and the potential economic viability of a deposit. It is named for its relationship to enargite and its metallic appearance, with "luzonite" suggesting a metallic quality.