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Cuprite

A species of Minerals, Also known as Ruberite, Red Copper Ore, Oxydulated Copper, Red Glassy Copper Ore

Cuprite, although varied in colors, is predominately made of copper. This beautiful stone has been excavated worldwide, with some of the largest collections found in the American Southwest's copper veins. It is heavily mined as an ore and used for creating industrial-strength copper products. It is also called "ruby copper" because of its reddish tinge.

Hardness:

3.5 - 4

Density:

6.15 g/cm³

General Info About Cuprite

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Physical Properties of Cuprite

Luster

Metallic, Adamantine, Dull, Sub-metallic

Diaphaneity

Transparent to translucent

Colors

Dark red to cochineal red, almost black

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

Tenacity

Brittle

Cleavage

Indistinct

Fracture

Conchoidal

Streak

Shining metallic brownish-red

Crystal System

Isometric

Hardness

3.5 - 4 , Soft

Density

6.15 g/cm³, Obviously Heavy Weight

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Chemical Properties of Cuprite

Chemical Classification

Oxides

Formula

Cu₂O

Elements listed

Cu, O

Optical Properties of Cuprite

Refractive Index

2.849

Optical Character

Isotropic

Health Risk of Cuprite

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What is the hazards of Cuprite?

Harm Type

Heavy Metals

Cuprite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Copper.

Copper

How to prevent the risks of Cuprite?

Avoid inhaling its dust!

Avoid putting it into mouth!

It's advisable to handle cuprite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing cuprite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store cuprite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.

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Rarity

Rare

Characteristics of Cuprite

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Formation of Cuprite

It is a secondary mineral which forms in the oxidized zone of copper sulfide deposits. It frequently occurs in association with native copper, azurite, chrysocolla, malachite, tenorite and a variety of iron oxide minerals. It is known as ruby copper due to its distinctive red color.

Cultural Significance of Cuprite

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Uses of Cuprite

Cuprite, though a beautiful gemstone, is not typically used in jewelry due to its brittleness. It is, however, found in patina on some bronze and copper artifacts. Artists have also used it to color glass beads, giving them a bloodstone hue.

Distribution of Cuprite

Cuprite is found in the Ural Mountains, Altai Mountains, and Sardinia, and in more isolated locations in Cornwall, France, Arizona, Chile, Bolivia, and Namibia.

Etymology of Cuprite

Cuprite was first described by Wilhelm Karl Ritter von Haidinger in 1845 and the name derives from the Latin cuprum for its copper content.

Healing Properties of Cuprite

Cuprite is believed to give you more confidence and determination so that you can face adversity with a stronger sense of will-power and resolve. It is said to enhance feminine power and provides the emotional support for better relationships. It has been used to attract wealth and success. Many say it will help to put you in touch with those who can help you to achieve your personal, financial and professional goals.

Chakras

Root, Solar Plexus