Ajoite

  Ajoite is a mineral which is part of the silicate class. Its chemical make up is (K,Na)Cu₇Al(Si₃O₈)₃(OH)₆ · 3H₂O, hydrated potassium sodium copper aluminum silicate hydroxide. Ajoite is used as a minor ore of copper. Ajoite is named after its main location in the Ajo District of Pima County, Arizona. It is a secondary mineral that forms from the oxidation of other secondary copper minerals. Ajoite’s color can range from blue green to light green. The luster is dull to resembling glass, thus it could be transparent to translucent. Its cleavage is perfect with a hardness of 3.5. Its streak is pale greenish white. Ajoite can also be found in other places like New Cornelia Mine, Ajo District, Pima County and Wickenburg, Maricopa County, Arizona, USA and the Messina District, South Africa.