MOUNTKEITHITE Meaning and
Definition
-
Mountkeithite is a rare mineral that belongs to the selenide mineral group. It is named after its type and locality, the Mount Keith nickel mine in Western Australia. Mountkeithite is classified as a selenide, which is a group of minerals that contain selenium as a major component.
In terms of its physical properties, mountkeithite is typically found in small, metallic, and opaque crystals. It exhibits a dark gray to black color and has a metallic luster, resembling other minerals within the selenide group. Its crystal structure is orthorhombic, meaning it forms crystals with three axes of unequal length that intersect at right angles.
Chemically, mountkeithite is composed of nickel and selenium atoms, with the chemical formula Ni3Se4. It forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of nickel-rich sulfide deposits. Mountkeithite often occurs in association with other nickel and selenium minerals, such as millerite and pentlandite.
Due to its rarity and limited occurrence, mountkeithite holds significance in mineralogy and is of interest to collectors and researchers. Its discovery has contributed to the understanding of the geological processes involved in the formation of nickel-sulfide deposits and the role of selenium in their mineralization.
