Linarite
| Colour | Blue |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 2.5 |
| Lustre | Sub-adamantine, vitreous |
| Streak | Pale blue |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Transparency | Transparent, translucent |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {100}, imperfect on {001} |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Chemical formula | PbCu[(OH) 2 | SO 4 ] |
| Specific gravity | 5.3 – 5.5 |
What is Linarite?
Linarite is a somewhat rare, crystalline mineral that is known among mineral collectors for its unusually intense, pure blue color. It is formed by the oxidation of galena and chalcopyrite and other copper sulfides. It is a combined copper lead sulfate hydroxide with formula PbCuSO4(OH)2. Linarite occurs as monoclinic prismatic to tabular crystals and irregular masses. It is easily confused with azurite, but does not react with dilute hydrochloric acid as azurite does. It has a Mohs hardness of 2.5 and a specific gravity of 5.3 – 5.5.
How to identify Linarite
- Lustre: Sub-adamantine, vitreous.
- Hardness: Mohs 2.5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: Pale blue.
- Habit: Monoclinic crystal system.
Linarite in different forms
Stones often confused with Linarite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Linarite?
Linarite is Mohs 2.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Linarite?
Linarite is typically blue (Deep azure blue).