By Chisom Ibemere
Covellite is a rare copper sulfide mineral also called Covelline. It is known for its deep blue to indigo color, often exhibiting a metallic sheen.
Covellite was discovered in 1832 in the copper mines of Cornwall, England. It was named after the Italian mineralogist Niccolo Covelli. Covellite can be seen in various other locations around the world, including the United States, Mexico, Peru, Germany, and China.
Covellite forms in hydrothermal ore deposits associated with other copper minerals. It is mostly found in copper-rich environments within volcanic rocks and mineral veins.
It occurs in both primary and secondary mineralization resulting from the alteration of primary copper sulfides.
Covellite is a valued mineral specimen for collectors due to its striking blue color and metallic luster. It is not used commonly jewelry production due to its softness and tendency to darken or deteriorate over time when exposed to light.
It is also of interest to researchers and scientists studying sulfide minerals and mineral formations.
Covellite has a deep blue to indigo color, often with iridescent or metallic reflections. Its chemical composition is copper sulfide (CuS), and it has a hardness of around 1.5 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a very soft mineral.
It has a dark streak and exhibits a submetallic to resinous lustre. It is known for its distinctive color and appearance.
Covellite’s value is primarily aesthetic and collector-oriented. High-quality covellite specimens with intense blue color, good crystal form, and lustrous surfaces can be sought after by collectors and mineral enthusiasts.
Covellite is not commonly used for commercial purposes due to its limited occurrence, softness, and lack of practical uses.
As a result, covellite’s global market value is relatively niche compared to more common and commercially valuable minerals like copper, gold, or gemstones.