Mineral Species: Molybdenite

Chemical Formula: MoS2

Chemical Name: Molybdenum Sulfide

Mineral Class: Sulfide

Mineral Notes: Molybdenite is the major ore of molybdenum. It is found in high-temperature veins, pegmatites and contact metamorphic rocks. The mineral crystalises in the hexagonal system as prisms and scales. It is opaque, metallic and gray. Molybdenite's structure is composed of metal ions sandwiched between layers of sulfur. The sulfur layers are strongly bonded to the molybdenum, but are not strongly bonded to other sulfur layers, hence the softness and perfect cleavage of the mineral. It is soft enough to leave a mark on paper and fingers. Its greasy feel is due to its extreme softness.

Description: Large, shiny, scale-like crystals of Molybdenite coating the surface of a white pegmatite matrix. Some of the Molybdenite crystals are splayed out in flower-like formations. All have the very shiny, metallic luster associated with this mineral.

Location: Wolfram Camp, Queensland, Australia.