Copper

Introduction: Copper is used in cables, coils and in copper wiring as it is an excellent conductor. It is named from the Latin word 'cuprum', from 'cyprium' meaning a metal from Cyprus. Found in colours that vary from copper-red to pale pink or brown, it occurs in a number of forms including wiry fibres, crystals (rare) and flat sheets.

Distribution: Tsumeb, Kombat and Klein Aub copper mines

Composition: Native metal

Crystal system: Cubic

Lustre: Metallic

Streak: Light red

Hardness: 2.5-3