Mixite

Mixite is a rare copper bismuth arsenate mineral with formula: BiCu₆(AsO₄)₃(OH)₆·3(H₂O). It crystallizes in the hexagonal crystal system typically occurring as radiating acicular prisms and massive encrustations. The color varies from white to various shades of green and blue. It has a Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4 and a specific gravity of 3.8. It has an uneven fracture and a brilliant to adamantine luster.

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It occurs as a secondary mineral in the oxidised zones of copper deposits. Associated minerals include: bismuthite, smaltite, native bismuth, atelestite, erythrite, malachite and barite.

It was discovered in 1879 near J´achymov, Czech Republic by mine engineer Anton Mixa.

References

• Mindat data with locations
• Webmineral data
• Mineral data publishing PDF