Likasite
Chemical formula: Cu²⁺₃N⁵⁺O₃(OH)₅(H₂O)·H₂O
Likasite is a very rare, blue copper mineral, forming small, platy crystals, discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Properties
- Mohs hardness
- 2
- Color
- Sky Blue
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Streak
- Light blue
- Density
- 2.96
- Cleavage
- on {001}
- Fracture
- Micaceous
- Transparency
- Transparent
- Crystal system
- Orthorhombic
Diagnostic features
## Identification Likasite can be identified by its characteristic light blue color, platy crystal habit with a hexagonal outline, and its occurrence in association with other secondary copper minerals from the Likasi mine. ## Distinguishing from Similar Minerals It can be confused with other blue, secondary copper minerals, such as buttgenbachite, with which it often co-occurs. Differentiation requires advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), due to visual similarity and co-occurrence. ## Crystal Forms It forms thin, platy crystals with a hexagonal habit, often grouped into rosettes or random aggregates on the host rock.
Geological environment
## Genesis Likasite is a secondary mineral, formed in the oxidation zone of copper deposits in a nitrate-rich environment. Its formation in the Likasi mine is likely associated with the reaction of ore waters with ammonium nitrate-based explosives used in mining operations. ## Mineral Associations It most commonly co-occurs with buttgenbachite, as well as cuprosklodowskite, uranophane, kamotoite-(Y), and heterogenite. ## Localities The only confirmed locality for likasite in the world is the Likasi mine in Katanga Province, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rarity
Extremely rare
For collectors
## Quality Criteria The most prized specimens are those with well-formed, sharp crystals of intense blue color, forming aesthetic rosettes or rich coatings on a small rock matrix. Contrast with associated minerals also enhances the specimen's appeal. ## Popular Localities All collector specimens come from a single location in the world: the Likasi mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which makes them extremely rare and sought after by specialized micromineral collectors.
Care and storage
## Cleaning Specimens should be cleaned with extreme care, using compressed air to remove dust. Due to the high softness and fragility of the crystals, mechanical contact, including brushes, should be avoided. ## What to Avoid Contact with water, acids, and other chemicals that can damage or dissolve the mineral must be absolutely avoided. The crystals are very soft and brittle, susceptible to mechanical damage. It should be protected from high temperatures. ## Storage Likasite specimens, typically as microminerals, should be stored in specialized, sealed boxes (''micromount'' type) that protect them from dust, humidity, and mechanical damage.