Information about Schulenbergite

Schulenbergite is a rare secondary copper-zinc sulfate mineral known for its striking sky-blue to bluish-green colouration. Schulenbergite is translucent in thin sections and often found in oxidised zones of zinc and copper deposits.

Uses and History

Schulenbergite has no significant industrial uses due to its rarity and delicate crystal habit. It is highly sought after by mineral collectors for its vibrant colour and uncommon occurrence. Its presence can serve as an indicator of secondary mineralization processes in copper-zinc-rich environments.

Schulenbergite was named after the locality of Glücksrad Mine, Oberschulenberg, Clausthal-Zellerfeld, Goslar District, Lower Saxony, Germany in the Harz Mountains, Germany, where it was initially discovered.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

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

Further Reading / External Links

• https://www.mindat.org/min-3589.html
• https://museum.wales/mineralogy-of-wales/database/?mineral=197&name=Schulenbergite
• http://webmineral.com/data/Schulenbergite.shtml
• https://handbookofmineralogy.org/pdfs/schulenbergite.pdf