Cuprite
| Colour | Red, Black |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 to 4 |
| Lustre | Adamantine, sub-metallic, earthy |
| Streak | Shining metallic brownish-red |
| Crystal system | Cubic |
| Transparency | Transparent, translucent |
| Cleavage | Fair in four directions forming octahedrons |
| Fracture | Conchoidal to uneven |
| Chemical formula | Cu 2 O |
| Specific gravity | 6.14 |
What is Cuprite?
Cuprite is an oxide mineral composed of copper(I) oxide Cu2O, and is a minor ore of copper.
How to identify Cuprite
- Lustre: Adamantine, sub-metallic, earthy.
- Hardness: Mohs 3.5 to 4 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: Shining metallic brownish-red.
- Habit: Cubic crystal system.
Cuprite in different forms
Stones often confused with Cuprite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Cuprite?
Cuprite is Mohs 3.5 to 4 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Cuprite?
Cuprite is typically red, black (Dark red to cochineal red, sometimes almost black).