noun
- Plural of chalcocite; a mineral form of copper sulfide (Cu₂S), typically occurring as dark gray or black crystals and an important ore of copper.
Usage: mineralogy; geology
Examples
- Chalcocites are commonly found in the enriched zones of copper ore deposits.
- The geologist identified several specimens of chalcocites in the mine samples.
- Chalcocites form through the oxidation and enrichment of primary copper sulfides.
- Mining operations often target chalcocites as a valuable source of copper.
- The dark luster of chalcocites makes them easily recognizable in hand specimens.