Ferberite

Ferberite is a popular mineral composed of iron tungstate. ^[1]

Ferberite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Ferberite:

• Transparency: Ferberite is opaque.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, ferberite is monoclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, ferberite can be metallic or submetallic.
• Streak: Ferberite streaks black.
• Specific Gravity: Ferberite's specific gravity ranges from 7.3 to 7.5.

Ferberite: Background and Summary

Ferberite is a mineral that belongs to the wolframite group. It is a tungsten iron oxide mineral that is found in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites. Ferberite has a dark black color with a metallic luster, and it is often found in prismatic or tabular crystals. It has a hardness of 4.5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 7.5 to 7.6. Ferberite is often associated with other minerals such as quartz, cassiterite, and scheelite.

To identify ferberite, one must look for its dark black color and metallic luster. It can be distinguished from other minerals in the wolframite group by its higher iron content. Ferberite can also be identified by its prismatic or tabular crystal structure and its high specific gravity.

Ferberite is an important source of tungsten, which is used in the production of hard alloys, steel, and other alloys. It is also used in the manufacture of electrical contacts and filaments. Ferberite is found in many countries around the world, including Bolivia, China, Russia, and the United States.