Millerite

Introduction: Millerite is a nickel sulphide which can be mined for its nickel content if found in sufficient quantities. It is named after a professor of mineralogy at the University of Cambridge, William Hallowes Miller (1801-1880). This mineral is usually found in limestones and ultramafic rocks.

Distribution: Kaokoland sodalite deposits and the Tsumeb Mine.

Composition: Sulphide.

Crystal system: Hexagonal.

Lustre: Metallic.

Streak: Green-black.

Hardness: 3.3-5.