Is bornite the same as 'peacock ore'?

Yes, 'peacock ore' is a common nickname for bornite, referring to its iridescent tarnish.

Can I find bornite as a gemstone?

No, bornite is too soft and opaque for gem use but is prized by mineral collectors.

What is the chemical formula of bornite?

Its chemical formula is Cu5FeS4.

Where is bornite typically found?

It's found in copper deposits worldwide, often in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic zones.

Is “bornite” formal?

Bornite is usually technical (geology, mineralogy, mining) in register.

How do you pronounce “bornite”?

Bornite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɔːnaɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɔːrnaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.

bornite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

UK/ˈbɔːnaɪt/US/ˈbɔːrnaɪt/

Technical (Geology, Mineralogy, Mining)

My Flashcards

Quick answer

What does “bornite” mean?

A sulfide mineral of copper and iron (Cu5FeS4), known for its iridescent tarnish.

Audio

Pronunciation

Definition

Meaning and Definition

A sulfide mineral of copper and iron (Cu5FeS4), known for its iridescent tarnish.

An economically important source of copper ore.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

No spelling or primary meaning differences. The technical pronunciation may slightly vary.

Connotations

Identical scientific connotations.

Frequency

Exclusively used in specialized fields; frequency is identical and low in both variants.

Grammar

How to Use “bornite” in a Sentence

Bornite occurs in [geological context].[Process] altered the bornite.The bornite was associated with [other minerals].

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong

massive bornitepurple bornitebornite oreprimary bornite

medium

specimens of borniteveins containing bornitecopper from bornite

weak

richbeautifulidentifyingcommon

Usage

Meaning in Context

Business

In copper mining investment reports: 'The deposit shows high-grade bornite mineralisation.'

Academic

In geology journals: 'Supergene enrichment converted primary chalcopyrite into secondary bornite.'

Everyday

Not used.

Technical

In mineralogy field guides: 'Bornite is distinguished by its reddish-purple tarnish.'

Vocabulary

Synonyms of “bornite”

Strong

Cu5FeS4

Neutral

peacock orevariegated ore

Weak

copper ore

Watch out

Common Mistakes When Using “bornite”

Mispronouncing as 'born-ite' (like 'born').
Confusing it with bismuthinite or other metallic ores.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

: Yes, 'peacock ore' is a common nickname for bornite, referring to its iridescent tarnish.
: No, bornite is too soft and opaque for gem use but is prized by mineral collectors.
: Its chemical formula is Cu5FeS4.
: It's found in copper deposits worldwide, often in hydrothermal veins and contact metamorphic zones.
: A sulfide mineral of copper and iron (Cu5FeS4), known for its iridescent tarnish.
: Bornite is usually technical (geology, mineralogy, mining) in register.
: Bornite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɔːnaɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɔːrnaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Bornite is born with a beautiful sheen, like a peacock's feathers, hence its nickname 'peacock ore'.

Conceptual Metaphor

The mineral is a 'treasure chest' due to its high copper content and aesthetic value.

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap

The distinctive colour of tarnished bornite gives it the nickname 'peacock ore'.

Multiple Choice

Bornite is primarily valued as a source of which metal?