Wolframite

Wolframite is a popular mineral series composed of manganese iron tungstate. ^[1]

Wolframite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Wolframite:

• Transparency: Wolframite can be opaque or translucent.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, wolframite is monoclinic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, wolframite can be adamantine or submetallic.
• Streak: Wolframite streaks black, brown, brown black, reddish or reddish brown.
• Specific Gravity: Wolframite's specific gravity ranges from 7.1 to 7.5.

Wolframite: Background and Summary

Wolframite is a mineral that is composed of tungsten and iron. It is known for its dark color and metallic luster. Wolframite is commonly found in granite and pegmatite deposits, and it is primarily mined in China, Russia, and Bolivia. Wolframite is a valuable mineral due to its high tungsten content, which makes it an important resource for the production of tungsten metal and alloys.

To identify wolframite, one can look for its dark color and metallic luster. It can be distinguished from other minerals by its high specific gravity and its hardness, which is similar to that of quartz. Wolframite also has a distinctive crystal structure, which can be observed under a microscope.

Wolframite has a variety of uses. It is primarily used in the production of tungsten metal and alloys, which are used in a variety of applications, including electrical and electronic devices, aerospace components, and high-temperature applications. Wolframite is also used as a source of tungsten for the production of tungsten carbide, which is used in cutting tools, drill bits, and other industrial applications.