Nicolite - Copper Nickel Composition, Crystallization and Structure

Composition. Nickel arsenide, NiAs = 56.1, nickel 43.9. usually with a litle iron, cobalt and sulfur. Arsenic frequently replaced in part by antimony.

Crystallization. Hexagonal; hemimorphic.

Structure. Usually massive. Crystals rare.

Physical Properties. H. = 5-5.5. G. = 7.5. Metallic luster. Color pale copper-red, (hence called copper-nickel) with gray to blackish tarnish. Brownish black streak.

Tests. Fusible (2). When heated B. B. on charcoal a white volatile deposit of arsenous oxide forms and a garlic-like odor is given off. Gives to borax heated a reddish brown color (nickel). Characterized chiefly by its color.

Occurrence. Associated usually with cobalt, silver and copper minerals. Not very common. Found in the silver mines of Saxony, the Hars Mts., in Hessen-Nassau; at Cobalt, Canada, etc.

Use. A minor ore of nickel.