1. plural of chalcopyrite; a common sulfide mineral of copper and iron (CuFeS₂) that is an important ore of copper, typically brassy yellow in color
Usage: technical/mineralogy; usually used in plural form when referring to multiple specimens or deposits

Examples

• The geologist identified several chalcopyrites in the rock sample under the microscope.
• Chalcopyrites are the primary source of copper in many mining operations worldwide.
• The ore deposit contained significant quantities of chalcopyrites mixed with other sulfide minerals.
• Mining companies extract chalcopyrites to produce copper for electrical wiring and construction.
• The brassy luster of chalcopyrites makes them relatively easy to identify in the field.