Heterogenite

A secondary cobalt oxide mineral, typically found in weathered and oxidised zones of cobalt deposits.

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Information about Heterogenite

A secondary cobalt oxide mineral, typically found in weathered and oxidised zones of cobalt deposits. The vast majority of the deposits of this material are found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Uses and History

Heterogenite is an important source of cobalt, important in the modern age as a metal used in battery development, electronics, catalysts and alloys.

Heterogenite was first described in 1828 and derives its name from the Greek words “heteros” (different) and “genos” (kind).

The type locality for the mineral is Wolfgangmaßen mines, Saxony, Germany.

Mineralogy

Chemistry
A cobalt oxyhydroxide mineral with the formula CoO(OH).
Colours and Variations

Black, reddish, black-brown

Streak
Brownish-black.
Luster
Dull to vitreous
Transparency
Opaque.
Fracture
Uneven – conchoidal.
Crystal habit
Crystals are very rare. Commonly massive, globular, reniform, stalactitic, earthy. Sometimes dendritic.
Mohs hardness
3 – 5
Fluorescence
Specific Gravity
4.13 – 4.47
Easiest testing method

Hazards and Warnings

Cobalt is toxic if inhaled or ingested.

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

 

Translations

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Russian:

  • Гетерогенит

French:

  • Hétérogénite

Japanese:

  • ヘテロジェナイト

Spanish:

  • Heterogenita

German:

  • Heterogenit

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Further Reading / External Links