Fools Gold - Chalcopyrite - Under the Microscope
In This photograph you will see the gold like features of chalcopyrite. Also note the crystal like structure of how chalcopyrite forms. This is not a usual feature of gold an can be used as an indicator for distinguishing between the two. The pinkish color in the photograph is most likely K-Feldspar which is potassium feldspar. Quartz around the outside of the rock most likely fractured and allowed the chalcopyrite to form in its cracks. Furthermore we look at the green color which is likely malchite, another copper mineral which usually occurs with chalcopyrite. You can see the furry texture that the malchite presents.
This rock is actually from Kars, New Brunswick, obtained from an epidote rich alteration zone associated with mafic volcanic rocks. The rock itself tested 400ppm Copper and appeared to be relatively barren to the naked eye. Just another thing to keep in mind when you are out prospecting for gold and other minerals, often times you wont see these minerals unless you have a loupe or magnifier of some sort!
Next up I think I'll show you some hematite in quartz!
Stay tuned for more, as I find it I will show you!
NB Prospecting
