pentlandita
Pentlandita is a mineral primarily composed of nickel and iron, often found in sulfide deposits. It has a metallic luster and a brass-yellow color, making it visually distinctive. Pentlandita is an important ore of nickel, which is used in various applications, including stainless steel production and batteries.
This mineral typically forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often associated with other sulfide minerals like chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite. Its chemical formula is (Fe,Ni)9S8, indicating a solid solution between iron and nickel. Mining pentlandita contributes significantly to the global supply of nickel, essential for modern technology.