Erythrite

Erythrite is a popular mineral composed of cobalt arsenate. ^[1]

Erythrite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Erythrite:

• Transparency: Erythrite can be translucent or transparent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, erythrite is monoclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, erythrite can be pearly or vitreous (glassy).
• Streak: Erythrite streaks light red, pink, red or red pink.
• Specific Gravity: Erythrite's specific gravity ranges from 3 to 3.2.

Erythrite: Background and Summary

Erythrite is a mineral that belongs to the arsenate mineral group. It is a secondary mineral that forms in oxidized cobalt and nickel deposits. Erythrite is named after the Greek word 'erythros' which means red, as it commonly occurs in a bright pink to deep red color. It has a chemical formula of Co3(AsO4)2·8H2O, and a Mohs hardness of 1.5 to 2.5. Erythrite is not a rare mineral, but it is not commonly found in large deposits. It is often found in association with other cobalt and nickel minerals such as skutterudite, cobaltite, and nickel arsenides.

To identify erythrite, one can look for its characteristic pink to red color and its distinct crystal habit. Erythrite typically forms in acicular or fibrous crystals that can form in radiating clusters or crusts. It can also form as botryoidal or reniform masses. Erythrite is soluble in acid, and it can be distinguished from other pink minerals such as rhodochrosite or rhodonite by its solubility in acid.

Erythrite has several uses, mainly in the production of cobalt metal and cobalt-based alloys. Cobalt is used in various industrial applications, including in the production of rechargeable batteries, superalloys, and hard metals. Erythrite can also be used as a pigment in ceramics and glassmaking, as well as in the production of pigments for paints and coatings.