covellite
covellite, a sulfide mineral that is a copper ore, cupric sulfide (CuS). It typically occurs as an alteration product of other copper sulfide minerals (chalcopyrites, chalcocite, and bornite) present in the same deposits, as at Leogang, Austria; Kawau Island, N.Z.; and Butte, Mont., U.S. Covellite forms crystals that belong to the hexagonal system. For detailed physical properties, see sulfide mineral (table).
This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.
Citation Information
Article Title:
covellite
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
04 April 2019
Access Date:
November 14, 2026