noun
- Plural of covellite; a mineral form of copper sulfide (CuS) that typically occurs as hexagonal crystals with a metallic luster.
Usage: mineralogy; technical
Examples
- The geologist identified covellines in the ore sample under the microscope.
- Covellines are valued by mineral collectors for their distinctive indigo-blue color.
- The deposit contained significant quantities of covellines mixed with other copper minerals.
- Covellines form in the secondary enrichment zones of copper ore bodies.
- The museum's mineral exhibit featured several well-formed covellines from Chile.