Mineral Species: Molybdenite

Chemical Formula: MoS2

Chemical Name: Molybdenum Sulphide

Mineral Class: Sulphide

Mineral Notes: Molybdenite is a very soft metallic mineral easily confused with Graphite. However the latter has a darker colour and a black-gray streak, whereas Molybdenite has a bluish-silver colour and streak. Molybdenite's structure is composed of molybdenum ions sandwiched between layers of sulphur ions. The sulfur's layers are strongly bonded to the molybdenum, but are not strongly bonded to each other, hence the softness and perfect cleavage. It is soft enough to leave a mark on paper. The mineral's greasy feel is due to its extreme softness. It is an important ore of molybdenum and is sometimes called "Moly Ore".  

Description: A quartz matrix in which are embedded two crystals of Molybdenite. The larger is almost entirely exposed and shows an almost perfect hexagonal form. The smaller is partially oclluded by the surrounding quarts. Both have a very strong metallic colour and silver-blue colour.

Location: Langesundsfjurden, Vestfold, Norway.